In the year 2026 World Cup: Lionel Messi says ‘pain is too much’ after Argentina defeat in World Cup final

After Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final, Lionel Messi said “the pain is huge” and “it will take time to heal”.

Ferran Torres’ extra-time strike saw off. Spain became world champions. It ended with Argentina defending their title for the second time in 2022.

Messi has now lost two World Cup finals since Argentina lost 1-0 to Germany in 2014.

At the age of 39, Messi is unlikely to play in the 2030 tournament, although his international future has yet to be clarified.

“The pain is great, and this wound will take time to heal. But I will take all the good things,” Messi wrote on social media.

“The matches where we gave it our all – the moments that will stay in our memories forever – and the support of the entire country, combined with the dedication and hard work of this team, has put us back among the world’s elite.

“It’s hard to fully appreciate our success now, but this team has reached two consecutive World Cup finals.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the greetings and messages. We still stand together as a nation and share the great pride of being Argentine.

“I also want to congratulate Spain for winning the championship.”

Messi had eight goals and four assists as Argentina reached the finals for the third time in the last four World Cups.

He played a major role in the team’s come-from-behind victories over Egypt and England in the playoffs, but failed to beat Spain, who conceded just one goal in the tournament.