Lionel Messi‘s dream signing is back-to-back FIFA World Cup The title ended in heartbreak on Sunday as Argentina’s captain became emotional following his side’s 0-1 extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. Photos and videos of Messi crying, struggling to contain his emotions after collecting his final medal, quickly spread on social media, prompting the Argentine Football Association (AFA) to take action.Spain ended Argentina’s reign as world champions thanks to the substitution of Ferran Torres in the 106th minute, denying Messi one last legend in what is expected to be his final appearance in the FIFA World Cup.
Messi’s AFA award melts hearts
After the final whistle, AFA shared a heartfelt message dedicated to their legendary captain, whose heartbreak touched millions of fans around the world.“Your tears are our tears, Captain. You gave us the greatest joy in our lives. Thank you for your sacrifice, magic, and giving your all until the last minute. We love you forever, Leo!” Federal wrote on X.Messi could not hide his emotions as he watched Spain celebrate as Argentina took the final medals. Cameras caught the 39-year-old looking out into the crowd with tears in her eyes before bowing her head in dismay.The defeat was the end of one of the greatest eras in the history of Argentine football. Messi led La Albiceleste to the title of the 2022 FIFA World Cup while adding to the success of the Copa America in 2021 and 2024. However, the dream of becoming the first country since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup has eluded the Spanish giants.SEE:
Spain ends Argentina’s dominance in the lead
Despite the scoreline indicating a hard-fought contest, Spain dominated almost every aspect of the final.La Roja had plenty of possession, finishing twice and finishing with an incredible 20-1 advantage in shots. Argentina were banned for the rest of the tournament and their task was made worse when Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card late on, forcing Lionel Scaloni’s side to play the rest of the season with 10 men.The victory came just 37 seconds into the second half of overtime. Pedro Porro floated through the area, Nico Williams crossed the ball past the goal and Ferran Torres got to the right to hit the left-hand side into the roof of the net beyond Emiliano Martinez.The goal marked Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title and first since 2010.