Lionel Messi says the pain from Argentina’s World Cup final defeat to Spain will take time to heal. The Argentine star shared his thoughts on social media after his team lost 1-0 in extra time at the New York-New Jersey Stadium. Substitute Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in the 106th minute, denying Argentina a second consecutive title.
A Painful Defeat and Reflection
Argentina froze on the big stage in New Jersey as Spain clinched the title. The defending champions missed the spark that had pushed them to victory in Qatar, where they defeated France on penalty kicks following a 3-3 draw. Argentina looked likely to defend that title after battling past England in the semi-finals, but they fell short against a solid Spanish defense that held them without a shot on goal.
Messi, who likely played his last World Cup, posted a message on Instagram thanking supporters and congratulating Spain. He wrote that the group reached two consecutive finals despite the disappointment.
“The pain is immense, and this wound will take time to heal.”
— Lionel Messi
View this post on Instagram
Messi turned 39 during the tournament and will be 43 during the next World Cup in 2030. He took his World Cup goals tally to 21 during the competition, although he was overtaken by Kylian Mbappe, who now has 22. The veteran forward thanked his supporters without making any statement about his international future.
Post-Match Brawl and Upcoming Schedule
Tensions boiled over after Spain secured their second World Cup title. Argentina had already been reduced to 10 men in the 93rd minute of normal time when Enzo Fernandez was sent off for a second yellow card. At the final whistle, Argentine midfielder Leandro Paredes clashed with several Spanish players, including defender Eric Garcia and midfielder Gavi, leading to a brawl between the teams.
The players had to be physically separated, with Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni trying to calm down the players at the end of the ill-tempered match. Governing body FIFA has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the post-match altercation.
With the World Cup now over, Messi is set to take a break. Reports indicate he and Inter Miami FC teammate Rodrigo De Paul will not play in the next two games for the MLS club. Both players are set to miss the MLS All-Star Game on July 29. Messi and De Paul played in all eight matches for Argentina in the World Cup.
Frequently asked questions
What did Lionel Messi say about his feelings after the World Cup final loss?
Messi said the pain from Argentina’s 1‑0 defeat to Spain is immense and that the wound will take time to heal, posting a heartfelt Instagram message thanking fans and congratulating Spain.
How did the World Cup final end between Argentina and Spain?
Spain won the final 1‑0 in extra time after substitute Ferran Torres scored in the 106th minute, leaving Argentina without a shot on goal.
Was there a brawl after the World Cup final and is FIFA investigating?
Yes, a post‑match brawl erupted involving Argentine midfielder Leandro Paredes and several Spanish players; FIFA has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate the incident.
Did Lionel Messi play his last World Cup in 2022?
Messi, who turned 39 during the tournament, is likely playing his last World Cup, as he hinted it could be his final appearance after Argentina’s defeat in the final.
How many World Cup goals did Messi finish with in 2022?
Messi finished the tournament with 21 World Cup goals, though he was overtaken by Kylian Mbappé, who now has 22.
What happened to Enzo Fernández during the World Cup final?
Enzo Fernández was sent off in the 93rd minute after receiving a second yellow card, reducing Argentina to ten men before extra time.
