Enzo Fernandez’s World Cup Journey Ends in Disappointment After Red Card Against Spain
Enzo Fernandez’s 2026 World Cup came to a disappointing close as the Chelsea midfielder was sent off during Argentina’s final loss to Spain.
The 25-year-old had received an initial booking for dissent towards referee Slavko Vincic before making a poorly timed tackle on Pau Cubarsi in the last minute of regular time.
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Following the tackle, Fernandez was shown a second yellow card, marking Argentina’s first red card in a World Cup match since 2006.
BBC co-commentator Alan Shearer remarked, “How daft is that from Enzo Fernandez? He is on a yellow card for dissent, not the tackle, but for dissent. He knows that, because that didn’t happen long ago. For him to go into a challenge like that is crazy.”
Shearer added, “He can protest as much as he wants, but it’s the right decision. He gave the referee only one choice, and that was to show another yellow there for the red.”
Fernandez had been instrumental in leading his nation to the final, where they aimed to defend their world title.
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Now, he faces a three-week period for rest and recovery in line with FIFA guidelines before returning to Stamford Bridge for the upcoming 2026-27 Premier League season under new manager Xabi Alonso.
Chelsea will begin their new season against Fulham on Monday, 24 August.