Lionel Messi expressed deep sorrow over Argentina’s loss to Spain in the World Cup final, emphasizing the immense pain felt by the team. Despite the defeat, Messi commended his squad for making it to a second consecutive final and appreciated the unwavering support from fans. Spain clinched a 1-0 victory in extra time, dashing Argentina’s hopes of securing back-to-back World Cup titles and preventing them from emulating Brazil’s 1962 feat of retaining the trophy.
In a social media post, Messi acknowledged the lengthy healing process ahead but also highlighted the positive memories and the united support from the nation that propelled Argentina to the top echelons of world football. The football icon, at 39 years old, lauded Spain for their victory and took pride in Argentina’s achievement of reaching consecutive World Cup finals. Messi, alongside Brazil’s Cafu, now holds the distinction of appearing in three men’s World Cup finals, having featured in the finals of 2014, 2022, and the most recent tournament.
As Argentina’s most decorated player, Messi led the team to victory in the 2022 World Cup, Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024, and the 2022 Finalissima. With eight Ballon d’Or awards to his name, Messi is widely recognized as one of the greatest footballers in history. Reflecting on the World Cup journey, Messi emphasized the unity and pride shared by the Argentine people in the face of defeat.
[Link to CBC Sports’ Donnovan Bennett’s essay on the 2026 World Cup]