Enzo Fernandez: remember the name
Argentina, then, are through. After the scarcely believable defeat to Saudi Arabia in their opening game in Qatar, back-to-back wins over Mexico and Poland have seen them reach the knockout stages of the World Cup, where the draw has really opened up for them.
Much of the talk will inevitably be about Lionel Messi, but the performances of Enzo Fernandez are starting to catch the eye.
The 22-year-old midfielder curled Argentina’s second goal against Mexico not long after entering the game as a substitute. The Benfica star was impressive again in the win over Poland, threading the pass which allowed former River Plate teammate Julian Alvarez to double La Albiceleste’s lead.
Anyone not already aware of just how good he is before the tournament kicked off, almost certainly will be now. Quite rightly, some are expecting him to prove to be one of the standout performers come the end of the World Cup later this month.
Unfortunately, Fernandez does appear to have been the victim of an awkward case of mistaken identity following the win over Poland.
Appearing in the mixed zone, one journalist was eager to grab a word with him. The exchange was overheard by Miguel Delaney.
“Could this be the World Cup of Enzo Perez?” the journalist asked, seemingly confusing him with his 36-year-old former River teammate.
“I’m Enzo Fernandez,” he replied, before abruptly walking off.
Another vintage mixed zone moment.
Journalist: “Could this be the World Cup of Enzo Perez?”
Player: “I’m Enzo Fernandez”
Walks off
— Miguel Delaney (@MiguelDelaney) November 30, 2022
Ah well.
Fernandez may not have to put up with people confusing him for others for too much longer.
Argentina will now prepare for a last-16 stage meeting with Australia, who defeated Denmark by a single goal to confirm their place in the knockout stages of a World Cup for the first time since 2006.
More football news:
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- Cristiano Ronaldo ‘agrees £173m-a-year deal’ with Saudi club
