Off the PitchDaily Mail FootballUnverified source· 21 Jul 2026
Argentina star fakes injury to save Enzo Fernandez from red card
Nicolas Tagliafico dropped to the deck pretending to be hurt after Fernandez's reckless challenge.


N. Tagliafico
player
Who
Nicolas Tagliafico
What
Faked an injury to distract referee
When
93rd minute of World Cup final
Where
World Cup final
What happened. Tagliafico faked an injury seconds after Fernandez's foul, trying to prevent a red card, but the referee was not fooled.
- Fernandez was sent off for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsi.
- Messi also pleaded with the referee after the red card.
- Argentina lost 1-0 in extra time after Ferran Torres scored.
“It's shameless. They tried everything to con the referee.”
— Micah Richards
Argentina's antics continued after the match with a mass brawl during Spain's celebrations.
In this story
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Enzo Fernandez breaks silence after World Cup final red card with message to Argentina fans

