Lionel Messi says the hurt is overwhelming and will take time to fade after Argentina’s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.
Ferran Torres struck in extra time to seal Spain’s second world title, ending Argentina’s reign as 2022 champions. The loss means Messi has now been beaten in two World Cup finals, after the 1-0 defeat to Germany in 2014. At 39, he is unlikely to feature in 2030, though he has not clarified his international future.
In a social media post, Messi said the pain is immense but he’s grateful for the team’s resilience, the unforgettable turnarounds, and the unwavering support of the nation that helped lift Argentina back among the game’s elite. He noted it’s hard to fully appreciate the achievement now, but reaching back-to-back World Cup finals is significant. He thanked fans for their messages, praised the unity of the country, and congratulated Spain on their triumph.
Messi finished the tournament with eight goals and four assists, playing a central role in comeback wins over Egypt and England, but Argentina could not overcome a Spain side that conceded just once all tournament.
Midfielder Enzo Fernández, sent off in stoppage time after a second yellow for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsí, wrote that he and his teammates defended the shirt with pride, humility, and commitment, adding that competing is about giving everything and never giving up. FIFA’s disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate altercations between players at the final whistle.