Enzo Fernandez scored a stunning equaliser for Argentina in the 2026 World Cup semi-final at the Atlanta Stadium – then rubbed salt into English wounds by sharing a social media post of himself and his team-mates laughing with Oasis’s ‘Wonderwall’ playing in the background.
The Chelsea midfielder’s Instagram story, which was later deleted, featured the song that had become an unofficial anthem for England after previous wins in the tournament. It was the latest provocation from the 25-year-old, who had already angered fans by celebrating his goal wildly, covering his ears and mimicking people talking.
“Enzo Fernandez mocks England with Wonderwall post after scoring in World Cup semi-final defeat.”
Fernandez’s strike sparked a late turnaround that broke English hearts. Lautaro Martinez scored a 92nd-minute winner to deny England a place in the final, after Anthony Gordon had given them a deserved second-half lead. Argentina took control after England dropped deep to preserve their advantage, allowing Lionel Messi to orchestrate another rousing fightback.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni said his team “smelt blood” when England retreated. “The opponent doubted themselves a bit,” he said. “We smelled blood and went for it. We all felt it.”
Thomas Tuchel, the England manager, faced criticism from fans and pundits for his side’s weak surrender in Atlanta. The Germany coach’s tactics were questioned as Argentina seized control.
Chelsea themselves became embroiled in the controversy. The club posted an image of Fernandez celebrating on their official X account, captioned “Enzo Fernandez” alongside an explosion emoji. The post sparked a furious backlash from fans, including some of Chelsea’s own supporters, and was quickly deleted.
Fernandez’s latest social media antics are unlikely to endear him to England fans, who will have ample opportunity to make their feelings known when the midfielder travels up and down the country with Chelsea next season.
While England’s World Cup dreams were being extinguished in Atlanta, tournament favourites France were also brushed aside in meek fashion by Spain, according to reports. But for England, the pain of another semi-final defeat – and the image of Fernandez laughing to ‘Wonderwall’ – will linger long into the night.
