Here’s the latest update from the 2026 FIFA World Cup as of 2026-07-20 02:11:00.
EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Lionel Messi found himself in tears on Sunday as Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, leaving his international future uncertain. Ferran Torres scored just 37 seconds into the second extra-time period, allowing Spain to secure their second World Cup title and denying Argentina a chance to be crowned as back-to-back men’s champions since Brazil in 1962.
Messi’s Future in Question
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni reflected on Messi’s impact, saying, “I hope everyone feels proud of him, of what he’s achieved because he’s the best football player ever stepping foot on a pitch.” However, it remains unclear if this was Messi’s final appearance for Argentina. The 39-year-old previously indicated the 2022 World Cup would be his last, but he made history this year by becoming the first man to participate in six World Cups.
Players and fans were hopeful for a celebratory moment for Messi, but instead, he faced a heartbreaking defeat as he and his teammates saluted Argentine supporters while Spain celebrated on the podium. The 80,663 fans largely backed Argentina, but Messi left the field visibly upset, echoing the sentiment of a hard-fought but unsuccessful effort.
Spain’s Tournament Dominance
Spain displayed impressive control throughout the match and the tournament, holding a 20-2 advantage in shots and out-passing Argentina 845 to 433.
“When you have Messi on the other side, well, you are nervous,” Torres stated. “At the end of the day, we always depended on us. We showed our football.” After leading Argentina to victory against France in the 2022 final, Messi could only watch as Spain’s Lamine Yamal celebrated the decisive goal.
Critics had speculated that Messi’s move to MLS three years ago might signal the end of his illustrious career. Instead, he proved his worth with eight goals and four assists in the tournament, raising his World Cup total to 21 goals, a record until Kylian Mbappé scored twice in the third-place game to surpass him.
Messi’s performance in the tournament, including being the first player to start three World Cup finals, bolstered his reputation as one of the greatest, alongside legends like Diego Maradona and Pelé.
Despite his talent, Messi struggled to find scoring opportunities against Spain, managing only 15 touches in the first half and 54 overall. Spain’s tactical plan was clear: prevent Messi from impacting the game. Following the final whistle, several Spanish players comforted Messi, who sat on the grass staring vacantly at the field.
As Spain celebrated their double-title triumph, Messi exited the field looking dejected. The nation now holds both the men’s and women’s titles simultaneously, a historic achievement. The next chapter in Messi’s career remains uncertain.
FAQs
Will this be Lionel Messi’s last international match?
It’s uncertain. Messi previously stated the 2022 World Cup would be his last, but he hasn’t confirmed his future plans.
What was the final score of the World Cup 2026 match between Argentina and Spain?
Spain won the match 1-0, with Ferran Torres scoring the only goal in extra time.
Quick Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-07-20 02:11:00
Read more on the FIFA World Cup 2026 right here as the tournament continues.
Tags: #Lionel #Messi #tears #future #unclear #World #Cup #final #loss
Tags: #Lionel #Messi #tears #future #unclear #World #Cup #final #loss
