Fernandez defends Argentina as Messi questions remain

What the report says

BBC Sport reported that Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez defended the national team’s World Cup campaign after the defending champions lost the 2026 final 1-0 to Spain after extra time on Sunday in New Jersey. Fernandez, who was dismissed late in normal time after receiving two yellow cards, wrote on social media that Argentina had represented the country with pride and commitment, while saying the team’s effort meant more than the final result.

The final was followed by confrontations between Argentina players, staff and Spain players as Spain celebrated. BBC Sport reported that Fifa’s disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to examine the incidents, with possible sanctions for individuals and a potential fine for the Argentine Football Association. The article identified Nahuel Molina, Leandro Paredes, Thiago Almada and assistant coach Roberto Ayala as appearing to be involved in the scenes.

Questions also remain about Argentina’s internal mood before kick-off and the future of key figures. BBC Sport noted social media speculation over whether Lionel Messi told team-mates the final would be his last Argentina appearance, but said footage circulated by Argentine outlet RLC Noticias had not been verified by the BBC. In the clip, Messi appears to urge team-mates to stay calm and focus on playing.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni said after the match that the team had to show grace in defeat. BBC Sport added that Messi did not join the squad’s return to Buenos Aires, where thousands of fans welcomed the team, and that Argentine media have suggested the final may mark the end of an era for Scaloni and Messi.