London: Premier League club Chelsea deleted a social media post featuring midfielder Enzo Fernandez after Argentina’s dramatic FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal victory over England sparked criticism from English supporters.
Fernandez played a decisive role in Argentina’s 2-1 comeback win over England, scoring the equalising goal in the 85th minute before Lautaro Martinez scored the stoppage-time winner. Following the match, Chelsea’s official social media account posted an image of Fernandez celebrating his goal while representing Argentina.
However, the post quickly attracted criticism from sections of England supporters, who questioned the decision to highlight a player celebrating against England immediately after the semifinal defeat. Facing a wave of reactions, Chelsea removed the post from its social media platforms.
The incident highlighted the emotional intensity surrounding the World Cup semifinal, particularly because Fernandez plays for an English Premier League club and England fans have strong connections with Chelsea.
Fernandez’s crucial role in Argentina comeback
The semifinal at Mercedes-Benz Stadium was a tightly contested encounter between two football giants.
England took the lead in the 55th minute when Anthony Gordon finished Morgan Rogers’ cross, putting Thomas Tuchel’s side ahead and bringing them closer to a first World Cup final appearance since 1966.
Argentina responded with relentless pressure after falling behind. Lionel Messi once again played a central role in the defending champions’ comeback, providing the assist for Fernandez’s equaliser.
Fernandez controlled Messi’s pass outside the penalty area before producing a powerful strike that beat England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
The goal changed the momentum of the match, with Argentina sensing an opportunity to complete another late comeback. In stoppage time, Messi delivered another decisive contribution by crossing for Lautaro Martinez, who headed in the winning goal.
The victory sent Argentina into their second consecutive World Cup final, where they will face Spain.
Chelsea caught in sensitive situation
Chelsea’s decision to delete the post reflected the difficult position clubs can face when their players represent opposing national teams.
Fernandez joined Chelsea from Benfica in January 2023 for a British-record transfer fee at the time and has become an important figure for both club and country.
While Chelsea regularly celebrate performances from their players on international duty, the timing of the post created controversy because England had just suffered a painful semifinal elimination.
For many England supporters, seeing a Premier League club celebrate a goal scored against the national team was viewed negatively.
The reaction showed the balance clubs must maintain when managing global fan bases during major international tournaments.
Scaloni praises Argentina’s mentality
Meanwhile, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni celebrated his team’s ability to overcome difficult situations after another remarkable comeback.
Argentina had previously recovered from a difficult position against Egypt in the Round of 16, and Scaloni said the team continues to surprise him with its resilience.
“I’m speechless, speechless. What a joy for our country, for our people,” Scaloni said after the semifinal victory.
The Argentina coach praised his players’ mentality and highlighted the support from fans as a major factor behind the win.
“The other day I said that this squad never ceases to amaze me. And after this it’s very difficult to get people to understand what these players are capable of. It’s incredible,” he added.
Scaloni insisted that Argentina’s confidence was not arrogance but a belief developed through years of success.
“We’re unique, really, and that’s not arrogance — it comes from the heart. We’re unique,” he said.
Argentina thrive under pressure
During his post-match press conference, Scaloni explained that his team often performs best when facing difficult situations.
He said Argentina’s ability to respond under pressure has become one of their biggest strengths.
“To be honest, the team plays best when it’s under pressure. And when we’re under pressure and the opposition hesitates just a little, that’s when we smell blood and go all the way,” Scaloni explained.
The coach said the comeback against England represented everything football stands for, beyond just tactics and strategy.
“Football isn’t just about tactics, strategy and playing beautifully. Football is everything that was encapsulated in those 40 minutes,” he said.
Argentina’s players showed determination after conceding the opening goal, continuing to attack until they completed the turnaround.
Argentina prepare for Spain final
Argentina will now focus on their World Cup final against Spain, aiming to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title.
Spain reached the final after defeating France 2-0 with an impressive defensive and attacking display. The match will feature two teams with contrasting styles but similar ambitions.
Argentina will rely on the leadership of Lionel Messi, the creativity of Fernandez and the attacking threat of Martinez as they look to secure another historic triumph.
Conclusion
Chelsea’s deleted Enzo Fernandez post underlined the emotional impact of Argentina’s semifinal victory over England. While the controversy was short-lived, it showed how closely club football and international football are connected during the World Cup.