Fernández's partner reveals World Cup final 'superstition'
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Valentina Cervantes, partner of Argentinian player Enzo Fernández, revealed her pre-match rituals for the World Cup final.
- Her 'cábala' includes placing her hand on Fernández's jersey while holding a rosary, with an "Amén" tattoo visible on her wrist.
- Cervantes previously admitted to watching matches from an internal stadium area due to nerves, highlighting the intense emotional toll the tournament takes on players' families.
In the lead-up to the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain, the personal rituals of footballers' families have garnered significant attention. Valentina Cervantes, girlfriend of Argentinian midfielder Enzo Fernández, has emerged as a prominent figure, observed not only for her constant support but also for her unique pre-match 'cábalas' (superstitions).
Cervantes recently shared her personal ritual on social media, showcasing a photograph that encapsulates the shared anxiety and hope felt by millions of Argentinian fans. The image features Enzo Fernández's Argentina jersey, with Cervantes' hand resting on it while she firmly holds a rosary. A tattoo of the word "Amén" on her left wrist is prominently displayed alongside these symbols of her faith, illustrating a deep personal connection to her beliefs during the tournament.
I don't want to go onto the field, I'm watching it here as a superstition. I'll stay here until the match ends. I can't watch it because it affects me badly.
This ritual's significance was particularly evident during Argentina's semifinal match against England. Cervantes confessed her inability to watch the game from the field, opting instead to observe from an internal stadium area. "I don't want to go onto the field, I'm watching it here as a superstition. I'll stay here until the match ends. I can't watch it because it affects me badly," she told América TV at the time, clutching her rosary.
Her decision to remain away from the pitch, accompanied by their daughter, became a relatable image for many fans enduring the match's tension. Following Argentina's victory over England, Cervantes shared a tearful image on her digital platforms with the caption "Thank God," reflecting the immense relief after a hard-fought win. The emotional journey of the players' families, relying on faith and personal rituals as coping mechanisms amidst the uncertainty of the championship, resonates deeply with the broader fan base.
Thank God
Originally published by La Nación in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.