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Lionel Messithe dream of signing back to back FIFA World Cup titles came to a sad end on Sunday as Argentina’s captain was overcome with emotion following his side’s 0-1 extra-time defeat by Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. Viral images and videos of a tearful Messi, struggling to contain his emotions after winning a runners-up medal, quickly spread across 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 one last fairytale ending in what many expect to be his last appearance at the FIFA World Cup.
AFA’s emotional tribute to Messi melts 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 joys in our lives. Thank you for your dedication, for your magic, and for giving everything to the last second. We love you forever, Leo!” the federation wrote on 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 his eyes before bowing his head in disappointment.The defeat marked the end of one of the greatest eras in Argentine football history. Messi led La Albiceleste to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title, while adding to Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024. However, the dream of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup slipped away against a dominant Spanish side.WATCH:
Spain ends Argentina’s reign in a dominant way
While the scoreline suggested a tight contest, Spain controlled almost every aspect of the final.La Roja enjoyed plenty of possession, completing almost twice as many passes and finishing with a staggering 20-1 advantage in shots. Argentina were heavily restricted throughout the contest and their task was made even more difficult after Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card late in normal time, forcing Lionel Scaloni’s side to play the entire extra-time with 10 men.The turnaround finally came just 37 seconds into the second half of overtime. Pedro Porro crossed deep into the area, Nico Williams headed the ball back over the goal, and Ferran Torres arrived perfectly and hit the roof of the net beyond Emiliano Martinez with a left-footed shot.That goal secured Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title and first since 2010.
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