Lisandro Martinez’s fiery show ends with injury, sending Man United fans into a frenzy
Argentina suffered a major setback in the first half of their World Cup final against Spain after defender Lisandro Martinez suffered an injury following a typically combative display that had already seen him receive his first yellow card.
Renowned for his aggressive defending, the Manchester United centre-back was at the heart of several tough challenges as Argentina looked to disrupt Spain’s rhythm at the MetLife Stadium. However, Martinez’s intensity came at a price as his night ended prematurely, leaving both Argentina and Manchester United fans fearing the worst ahead of the club’s new season.
Spain vs Argentina, World Cup Final: Highlighting
FIRE START
Martinez wasted little time forcing himself into the contest. The defender threw himself into the tackles from the opening whistle and tried to stop Spain’s quick passing with his typical aggressiveness.
His physical approach finally caught up to him in the 40th minute when he lunged at Rodri from behind as the Spanish midfielder tried to drive through the middle. Referee Anthony Taylor immediately showed the first yellow card of the World Cup final, while VAR saw no reason to recommend a review. Lisandro Martinez faced Spain’s Rodrigo in the World Cup final. (Image: Reuters)
Barely a minute later, Martinez was involved again, bringing down Mikel Oyarzabal as the Spanish striker looked set for a goal. Already on the reservation, the defender suddenly found himself on the disciplinary rope.
FORCED OFF
The evening soon went from bad to worse for Martinez. Moments after the yellow card, the Argentine defender caught his leg and required long treatment on the pitch.
Despite trying to continue, Martinez signaled that he could not continue and forced Lionel Scaloni into an early change at the heart of Argentina’s defence. Lisandro Martinez was sent off before half-time in the World Cup final. (Image: Reuters)
The injured centre-back was replaced by veteran Nicolas Otamendi, who made his 139th appearance for Argentina in one of the biggest games of his international career.
UNITED FANS CONCERNED
The injury immediately sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, with Manchester United fans expressing concern over the fitness of one of the club’s most important defenders.
Many feared another long spell on the sidelines for Martinez, who battled injury problems before returning to re-establish himself as a key figure for both club and country. Fan reaction on social media to Lisandro Martinez. (Image: Screengrab from X)
The timing couldn’t have been worse for United. Michael Carrick’s side have already started pre-season ahead of the new Premier League campaign and suffered a friendly defeat at Wrexham recently.
While Argentina hoped Otamendi would fill the void on football’s biggest stage, Manchester United supporters will now be anxiously awaiting an update on Martinez’s condition after seeing his fearless display end with an early injury scare.
Football World Cup | FIFA World Cup Schedule | FIFA World Cup Points Table | football news
– The end
Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
20 Jul 2026 02:22 IST