Argentina captain Lionel Messi has spoken out following the FIFA World Cup final loss to Spain, acknowledging that the defeat remains difficult to reconcile. Despite the disappointment of the result, the 39-year-old expressed his determination to cherish the positive memories and the collective effort shown by his team throughout the 2026 tournament.
Reflecting on the experience via Instagram, Messi remarked, "The pain is very great and it will be difficult to close this wound. But I also keep all the good things… With the matches that we turned around leaving everything and that will remain forever in the memory, with the support of an entire country that together with the work and effort of this group led us to be, once again, among the best in the world."
Messi highlighted the pride he feels in the team's ability to unite the Argentine people, noting that reaching two consecutive World Cup finals is a significant achievement, even if the final outcome was not what they desired. He extended his gratitude to the fans for their messages and support, while also offering his congratulations to Spain for securing the championship title.
The tournament was a notable campaign for Messi, who played a central role in Argentina's progression. He opened his account with a hat-trick against Algeria, followed by a brace against Austria. His scoring form continued with a goal after coming off the bench in the 3-1 win over Jordan, as well as strikes against both Cape Verde and Egypt as they won 3-2 in the Round of 32 and Round of 16, respectively. Although Switzerland managed to hold him scoreless, Messi contributed an assist in that match. He later provided two assists during the semifinal victory against England, as they came from behind to win 2-1. However, in the final against Spain, which Argentina lost 1-0, Messi was unable to record a goal or an assist.
This loss marks one of only two defeats Argentina has suffered in the last two editions of the tournament, the other being their opening match against Saudi Arabia in 2022.
Thank you very much from the bottom of my heart for each greeting and for each message.
