The highly anticipated World Cup came to an end on July 19. Over the course of more than a month of competition, the Argentine team defeated Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland, and England, advancing to the final but ultimately losing to Spain, failing to defend their World Cup championship. Star player Lionel Messi was seen crying on the field. Fans expressed their gratitude for Messi’s efforts and gained a deeper understanding of his greatness.
In the 2022 Qatar World Cup, Messi led the Argentine team to victory. In the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 39-year-old Messi, despite not having the advantage of age, scored 8 goals and provided 4 assists with his outstanding skills, leading Argentina to astonishing comebacks in several matches and reaching the final. However, they fell short of fulfilling their dream of consecutive titles.
After the match, Messi wrote on Instagram, “The emotional pain is immense, it will take time to heal. But I will also cherish all the beautiful memories… Every game we fought with all our might will forever stay in our memories. The support from the entire country, combined with the efforts and sacrifices of this team, once again placed us among the best teams in the world.”
“It is hard to fully grasp the extent of our achievement today, but this team has reached the World Cup final for two consecutive editions. I sincerely thank everyone for the blessings and messages. Once again, we come together as a nation and feel immensely proud to be Argentine. I also congratulate Spain on winning the championship,” he said.
Argentine fans are proud of Messi and the team he led. According to Reuters, fan Jose Delgadillo said, “What we witnessed yesterday (July 19) and the team’s performance in recent years have been unprecedented and magnificent.”
“They are amazing, Messi is the best, Scaloni and the entire coaching staff are outstanding too, everything they have done is remarkable,” Delgadillo added.
Signs on Argentine streets read, “Thank you for everything you have done, and thank you for the exciting football you have brought.” Images of Messi can also be seen on the streets.
Thomas Frias, 21, said, “They finished a very tough, physically demanding World Cup. I feel they gave their all, and to be honest, I am proud of them. Of course, it would be great to have celebratory events. I think the support and love for them have been evident, the Obelisk Square was packed with people yesterday.”
“I am really proud of them, I think they played a fantastic World Cup. Of course, we hoped for a victory, but after all, we have experienced many years of glory, and I believe someday it will be your turn (to lose),” Frias added.
Joaquín Coronel, 22, said sadly, “Messi has given us everything, he does not need to give more. He has dedicated all his energy, passion, and magic to the Argentine people, and this must be acknowledged. Although the result is not what we desired, he is the person we need.”