Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi has spoken publicly for the first time after Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, describing the loss as deeply painful.
In an emotional Instagram post on Monday, the Argentina captain wrote, “The pain is immense and it’s going to take a long time for this wound to heal.”
Messi said he would still cherish the journey, adding, “I’ll also hold on to all the good memories. Today it’s hard to appreciate what we achieved, but this squad reached two consecutive World Cup finals.”
The 39-year-old also congratulated the new champions, saying, “I’d also like to congratulate Spain on winning the tournament.”
Messi was visibly emotional after the final, breaking down in tears following Argentina’s extra-time defeat.
Argentina reached the final after comeback victories over Egypt and England before overcoming Cape Verde and Switzerland in extra time during the knockout stage.
Reflecting on the team’s campaign, Messi wrote, “With the matches we turned around by giving our all – matches that will remain in our memories forever – and with the support of an entire country, which, together with the hard work and effort of this squad, led us to once again be among the best in the world.”
Despite finishing the tournament with eight goals, the Inter Miami forward struggled to influence the final as Spain produced a disciplined performance to lift the trophy.
The defeat marks Messi’s second World Cup final loss after 2014, while his only World Cup triumph came in 2022 when Argentina defeated France.
Argentinian media reports said Messi is not expected to return to Buenos Aires with the rest of the squad as the team prepares for a quiet homecoming.
