Enzo Fernandez was sent off in the 93rd minute of the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, receiving a second yellow card for a late challenge on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi. The dismissal occurred near the halfway line with only minutes remaining in regular time.
Fernandez protested the decision, as did teammates Lionel Messi and Facundo Medina, but referee Slavko Vincic issued the red card. Former player Wayne Rooney commented on the incident, stating on the BBC, "A silly tackle. He's a little bit late to it. On a yellow card you can't just dangle your leg out. It makes it a very different game now."
The match saw Argentina struggle offensively during the first 90 minutes, recording no shots compared to Spain's 15. Argentina's Leandro Paredes also drew attention for a foul near the penalty box shortly after Fernandez's booking, though he avoided a second yellow card. Lamine Yamal tested the goalkeeper with a subsequent free-kick, but Argentina managed to hold on, forcing the match into extra time at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Fernandez, a 25-year-old midfielder, has been a key player for Argentina throughout the tournament. He previously scored a 93rd-minute winner in the Round of 16 against Egypt and netted Argentina's equalizer against England in the semi-finals.
In extra time, Spain substitute Nico Williams scored what appeared to be the opening goal, but it was disallowed for a foul on Nicolas Otamendi.