Argentina Sets Record with Third Red Card in World Cup Final
Enzo Fernandez was shown a red card late in the game during Sunday’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final, marking Argentina as the first country ever to have three players sent off in a World Cup final match.
The Chelsea midfielder received his initial yellow card for arguing with referee Slavko Vincic. Just three minutes into stoppage time, he earned a second yellow after a reckless tackle on Pau Cubarsi, resulting in his dismissal. This happened while Argentina, led by Lionel Scaloni, was pushing hard to reach penalties, with the score still goalless at full time.
Spain Seals Victory in Extra Time
Spain broke the deadlock in the 106th minute when Ferran Torres scored following a pass from Nico Williams. Argentina struggled offensively and did not manage a single shot on target throughout the final.
Argentina’s Troubling Disciplinary History in Finals
Fernandez joined Pedro Monzon and Gustavo Dezotti, both sent off in the 1990 World Cup final against West Germany, when Argentina lost 1-0. That 1990 match was the only other World Cup final where two players from the same team were dismissed. France previously held a similar record with two red cards in finals—Marcel Desailly in 1998 and Zinedine Zidane in 2006. Now, Argentina stands alone with three red cards in finals.
This defeat added to Argentina’s tough luck in finals. Having lost in 1930, 1990, and 2014 as well, they now share the record for most final losses with Germany, four each. Their three World Cup wins came in 1978, 1986, and 2022, but their growing list of runner-up finishes casts a shadow over their achievements.
A Painful Conclusion to Argentina’s Campaign
Fernandez played a key role in Argentina’s journey to the final, with Scaloni relying heavily on him throughout the knockout stage. The way the final ended—with frustration leading to a red card, a single goal conceded, and little offensive impact—will likely weigh heavily on the team as they prepare for upcoming international contests.
