World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi says 'pain is immense' after Argentina lose World Cup final
Lionel Messi expressed deep disappointment after Argentina's 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final. Despite the defeat, Messi reflected on the team's pride and their journey to two consecutive finals.
Why it matters
The result marks a significant moment in international football, highlighting the end of Argentina's title defense and the potential final stages of Messi's career.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Messi has won one of the three World Cup finals he has played in
Lionel Messi says "the pain is immense" and that it "will take time to heal" after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final.
Ferran Torres' extra-time strike saw Spain crowned world champions for a second time, ending Argentina's defence of the title they won in 2022.
Messi has now lost two World Cup finals after Argentina were defeated 1-0 by Germany in 2014.
At 39 years old, Messi is unlikely to feature at the 2030 tournament, though he is yet to clarify his international future.
"The pain is immense, and this wound will take time to heal. But I also hold onto all the good things," Messi wrote on social media.
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