Messi says ‘pain is immense’ after Argentina’s World Cup final heartbreak against Spain

Lionel Messi says the pain of Argentina’s World Cup final defeat by Spain is “immense” and admits it will take a long time for the wounds of the 1-0 loss to heal, even as he insists he will cherish the memories of another deep run on football’s biggest stage.

The 39-year-old captain, who failed to significantly influence the final as Spain claimed the title in extra time, reflected on the result and Argentina’s journey in an emotional message on Instagram.

“The pain is immense and it’s going to take a long time for this wound to heal,” Messi wrote alongside a picture of himself wearing his runners-up medal after the defeat to the European champions.

“I’ll also hold on to all the good memories,” he added. “Today it’s hard to appreciate what we achieved, but this squad reached two consecutive World Cup finals.”

Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, also paid tribute to the new world champions.

“I’d also like to congratulate Spain on winning the tournament,” he said, having been seen in tears at the final whistle.

Messi reflects on epic route to final

Argentina’s run to the final was marked by resilience and late drama. In the knockout stages they came from behind to beat both Egypt and England, and needed extra time to overcome Cape Verde and Switzerland.

“With the matches we turned around by giving our all matches that will remain in our memories forever and with the support of an entire country, which, together with the hard work and effort of this squad, led us to once again be among the best in the world,” Messi wrote.

The Inter Miami forward scored eight goals during the tournament, underlining his enduring influence at international level, but he and his team struggled to unsettle a well-organised Spanish side in the final.

The defeat leaves Messi with a World Cup record of three finals reached: runners-up in 2014 and 2026, and champions in 2022 when Argentina beat France in a dramatic penalty shootout in Qatar.

Fernandez sent off but vows to ‘give my all’

While Messi looked to the positives in Argentina’s campaign, team-mate Enzo Fernandez used his first public comments after the defeat to apologise through his actions rather than words, promising unwavering commitment to the national team despite his costly dismissal.

The Chelsea midfielder was sent off in second-half stoppage time of the final after picking up a second yellow card for a late tackle on Spain defender Pau Cubarsi, having earlier been booked for dissent. His red card left Lionel Scaloni’s side with 10 men for the closing stages before Spain wrapped up the title.

A day after the loss, Fernandez posted on Instagram to thank Argentina’s supporters and to underline that, for the players, representing the country goes beyond the final scoreline.

“As time goes by, you understand that there’s something much bigger than a result. For years, this group has represented us in the best way.

“They teach us that competing isn’t just about winning, but about giving everything for the shirt and never giving up. Being part of this group that always showed its mettle, that competed at the highest level, and that defended these colours with pride, humility, and commitment is an honour.”

‘Greatest honour of my career’

Fernandez, 25, also paid tribute to Argentina’s fans, whose presence and noise were felt in every stadium throughout the tournament.

“I want to thank all the Argentine fans. Thank you for always being there, for supporting us in every match, for your affection, your unconditional support, and for making us feel like we’re at home anywhere in the world.”

He closed his message with a pledge to continue answering his country’s call despite the heartbreak of the final.

“Wearing my country’s shirt is the greatest honour of my career, and I will continue to give my all every time I have the opportunity to defend it.”

The final defeat may have denied Argentina back-to-back world titles, but the words of Messi and Fernandez underline a belief within the squad that their legacy is not defined solely by trophies, and that their connection with the supporters remains as strong as ever.