New Delhi:Argentina captain Lionel Messi has shared an emotional message after his team lost the FIFA World Cup 2026 final to Spain. The defending champions were beaten 1-0 after extra time at the New York New Jersey Stadium , ending their dream of winning back-to-back World Cup titles.
Ferran Torres scored the only goal in the 106th minute to give Spain their second FIFA World Cup crown. A day after the defeat, Messi admitted the loss was painful but said he was proud of Argentina’s journey to a second straight World Cup final. He also thanked the fans for their support and congratulated Spain on becoming world champions.
What did Lionel Messi say after Argentina’s defeat?
Messi took to Instagram to share his feelings after the heartbreaking loss. He admitted that the defeat would take time to accept but said the team should also remember the positive moments from the tournament.
‘The pain is immense, and it will take time for this wound to heal. But I also hold on to all the good… This group reached two consecutive World Cup finals.’
Messi said Argentina fought hard throughout the competition and once again proved they are among the best teams in the world.
How did Messi thank Argentina fans?
The 39-year-old thanked the supporters for standing behind the team during the entire tournament. He said the players and fans once again came together and made the country proud.
Messi also congratulated Spain for winning the World Cup and wished them well after their title-winning campaign.
‘Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and every message. Once again, we managed to unite as a country. I also want to congratulate Spain on winning the championship.’
How did Spain stop Argentina in the final?
Spain produced a disciplined performance and did not allow Argentina to play their usual attacking football. They kept Messi away from dangerous areas and closed down every attacking move.
After a goalless 90 minutes, substitute Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in the 106th minute. Spain’s substitutes, including Nico Williams, added fresh energy and helped La Roja control the extra-time period.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente later said his team deserved to win and believed the match could have been decided earlier if not for goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez’s brilliant saves.
Why was this one of Argentina’s toughest matches?
Argentina struggled to create chances throughout the final. They became the first team in World Cup final history not to register a single shot during normal time. Their first attempt came only in the 116th minute, by which time they were already trailing 1-0.
The situation became even more difficult after midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a red card, forcing Argentina to finish the match with 10 players.
How did Lionel Messi perform in the tournament?
Although the final did not go his way, Messi had an outstanding FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign. He finished the tournament with eight goals and four assists, leading Argentina to another World Cup final.
Before the final, Messi had either scored or assisted in every knockout match and played a key role in dramatic comeback wins over Egypt in the Round of 16 and England in the semi-finals. However, Spain’s organised defence stopped him from making his usual impact, bringing Argentina’s title defence to an end.