Lionel Messi was overcome with emotion after Argentina’s World Cup dream came to a heartbreaking end on Sunday, with the football legend breaking down in tears following Spain’s 1-0 extra-time victory in New Jersey.
In what is widely expected to be the 39-year-old’s final appearance at a FIFA World Cup, the Argentina captain struggled to inspire his side before being left devastated as Spain lifted football’s biggest prize.
The emotional scenes unfolded after the final whistle at MetLife Stadium, where an estimated 1.7 billion people around the world watched the dramatic showdown.
As soon as the referee brought the match to an end, Messi sank to the turf, covering his face with his hands as the magnitude of the moment became clear.
Teammates and opponents attempted to console the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, but the emotion was evident as he contemplated what is likely to be the final chapter of his remarkable World Cup journey.
The heartbreak continued during the medal ceremony. After receiving his runners-up medal from President Donald Trump, Messi struggled to contain his emotions, bursting into tears moments before Spain lifted the World Cup trophy.
He later stood in front of Argentina’s travelling supporters, visibly emotional as they applauded their captain following another memorable tournament.
The defeat brought to an end Messi’s third appearance in a World Cup final. His first came in Brazil in 2014, when Argentina were beaten 1-0 by Germany after extra time.
© AFP via Getty ImagesEight years later, he finally realised his lifelong dream by leading Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar, cementing his place among football’s all-time greats.
This year’s tournament was expected to be one final opportunity for the Inter Miami star to add another title before bringing his international career to a close.
By the time the next World Cup arrives, Messi will be 43, making another appearance highly unlikely.
Although his club career is set to continue with Inter Miami, Sunday’s final is expected to mark the end of one of international football’s greatest careers.
© NurPhoto via Getty ImagesFacing a country where he enjoyed so much success during his years with Barcelona, Messi was unable to produce his trademark moments of magic.
Spain’s energetic defence limited his influence throughout the contest, with the likes of teenage sensation Lamine Yamal helping keep Argentina’s talisman unusually quiet.
The decisive moment came deep into extra time when Ferran Torres found the breakthrough, handing Spain the World Cup title and leaving Argentina to settle for silver.
Supporters around the world were quick to express their admiration for the Argentine icon following the emotional scenes.
© FIFA via Getty ImagesOne fan wrote on X: “You aren’t a football fan if you don’t feel sad for Messi.”
Another posted: “Thanks for everything you put into this game. You’ll always be the best.”
A third added: “The greatest of all time. The best to ever do it.”
While Messi’s tournament ended in disappointment, France star Kylian Mbappé celebrated a major personal milestone after securing the Golden Boot.
The Real Madrid forward finished the competition with 10 goals, two ahead of Messi, who was unable to close the gap in the final.
The achievement makes Mbappé the first player in World Cup history to win the Golden Boot twice, having also claimed the award at the 2022 tournament in Qatar, further underlining his status as one of football’s brightest stars.
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