Lionel MessiIt’s a dream to sign back-to-back FIFA World Cup The titles ended in heartbreak on Sunday as Argentina’s captain was overcome with emotion after his side’s 0-1 extra-time loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. Viral images and videos of a crying Messi, struggling to contain his emotions after collecting his runner-up medal, quickly spread on social media, prompting an emotional tribute from the Argentine Football Association (AFA).Spain ended Argentina’s reign as world champions thanks to substitute Ferran Torres’ decisive strike in the 106th minute, denying Messi in a final fairy-tale ending to what many expected to be his final appearance at the FIFA World Cup.
The AFA’s emotional tribute to Messi melted hearts
Shortly after the final whistle, the AFA shared a heartfelt message dedicated to their legendary captain, whose emotional breakdown resonated with millions of fans around the world.“Your tears are our tears, Captain. You gave us the greatest joy in our lives. Thank you for the dedication, the magic, and for giving everything until the last second. We love you forever, Leo!” the federation wrote X.Messi could barely hide his emotions as he watched Spain celebrate as Argentina collected their runners-up medals. Cameras captured the 39-year-old staring at the crowd with tears in her eyes before bowing her head in frustration.The defeat marked the end of one of the greatest eras in Argentine football history. Messi guided La Albiceleste to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title while adding Copa America victories in 2021 and 2024. However, the dream of becoming the first country since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup fell short against a dominant Spanish side.WATCH:
Spain ended Argentina’s reign in dominant fashion
While the scoreline suggested a tightly fought contest, Spain controlled almost every aspect of the final.La Roja enjoyed overwhelming possession, completing nearly double the number of passes and finishing with a staggering 20-1 advantage in shots. Argentina were largely restricted throughout the competition and their task became more difficult after Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card late in normal time, forcing Lionel Scaloni’s team to play the entire period with 10 men.The breakthrough finally came just 37 seconds into the second half of extra time. Pedro Porro floated a deep cross into the area, Nico Williams flicked the ball back across goal and Ferran Torres arrived perfectly to smash a left-footed finish into the roof of the net beyond Emiliano Martinez.The goal secured Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title and their first since 2010.