Fernandez defends Argentina as Messi questions remain

Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Enzo Fernandez played in seven of Argentina's eight 2026 World Cup matches By Michael Emons BBC Sport journalist Published 1 hour ago Midfielder Enzo Fernandez has claimed Argentina represented their nation "in the best possible way" during the World Cup, despite ugly scenes during and after their final loss to Spain. Fernandez was sent off late in normal time for two yellow cards and Spain won 1-0 after extra time on Sunday in New Jersey. His first booking was for showing dissent towards Slovenian referee Slavko Vincic and Fernandez was later dismissed for catching Pau Cubarsi with a challenge that sent the defender cartwheeling in the air. But, in a statement on social media, the Chelsea midfielder did not mention the red card and said: "As time goes by, you realise 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 colours with pride, humility, and commitment." Keeper Martinez may 'step aside' from Argentina Published 1 hour ago Fifa opens investigation into Argentina post-final trouble Published 18 hours ago To play this video you need to enable JavaScript in your browser. This video can not be played Figure caption, Fight breaks out between Spain and Argentina players at full-time Members of the Argentina team and backroom staff were involved in altercations with Spain players who had begun to celebrate their World Cup success. Fifa's disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to assess what happened and any player or coach involved could face suspension, while the Argentine Football Association may also be fined. Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala all appeared to be involved, with Paredes pushing Spain's Eric Garcia by the throat. Spain's Gavi tried to intervene, but was forced to the ground by Almada, before Paredes pushed Gavi to the turf by putting his hand in the Spaniard's face. Ayala then looked to be holding Garcia around the throat, before appearing to strike Spain midfielder Dani Olmo. 'Let's forget everything else' While the match ended with ugly scenes broadcast around the world, questions remain over what happened behind closed doors prior to kick-off. There has been widespread speculation on social media about what was said in the Argentina dressing room before the game, including whether Lionel Messi informed his team-mates that the final would be his last match for the national side. It comes after Argentine television company RLC Noticias posted footage appearing to show Messi urging his team-mates to stay calm on their walk to the tunnel - and "forget about everything else". In the footage, which has not