Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernández has defended the ugly scenes that marred the World Cup Final, which saw Spain edge the Albiceleste for the World Cup trophy, Yankee Scores reports.
Late in normal time Fernandez was issued a second yellow card and sent off and Spain won 1-0 after extra time on Sunday.
His first yellow was for dissent towards Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic, and Fernandez was later sent off for catching Pau Cubarsi with a tackle that sent the defender cartwheeling in the air.
In a statement on social media, Enzo said: “As time goes by, you realize there is something much bigger than just a result.
“For years, this group has represented the team in the best possible way. It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning; it’s about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up.
“It has been a privilege to be part of a group that always stepped up, competed at the highest level, and defended these colors with pride, humility, and commitment.”
Scuffles broke out between Argentina players and backroom staff and Spain players who had started to celebrate their World Cup victory.
Fifa’s disciplinary committee has named a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to look into the incident, and any player or coach found to have been involved could be suspended, while the Argentine Football Association could be fined, per BBC Sport.
Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala all looked to be involved with Paredes pushing Spain’s Eric Garcia in the throat.
Spain’s Gavi sought to take part, but Almada sent him to the ground, before Paredes shoved Gavi to the turf by putting his hand in the Spaniard’s face.
Ayala then appeared to have Garcia by the throat before seeming to strike Spain midfielder Dani Olmo.
