World Cup 2026: It’ll Take Time For This Wound To Heal —Messi Opens Up On Argentina’s Defeat To Spain

Lionel Messi has reacted to Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the final of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on Sunday.

A goal by Barcelona forward Ferran Torres in the 106th minute of extra-time earned Spain a deserved 1-0 win against Argentina.

The Albiceleste were reduced to 10 men in the 93rd minute after Enzo Fernandez was shown a second yellow card for terrible tackle on Pau Cubarsi.

It was a game the Spaniard dominated from start to finish and which saw Argentina managing just two goals attempt and no shot on target.

Reflecting on the defeat, Messi thanked the Argentine fans for their support and also congratulated Spain.

“The pain is immense, it will take time for this wound to heal,” he wrote on social media.

“But I also choose to hold on to all the good things, all matches we turned around by giving everything and moments that will remain in our memories forever.

Also Read: World Cup 2026: Fate Would Have Been Cruel To Spain Had They Lost Title — Iroha

“I will always remember the support of an entire country that, together with the work and effort of this group, brought us back once again among the best teams in the world.

“Today, it is difficult to appreciate what we achieved… but this group has really reached two consecutive World Cup finals.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and every message.

“Once again, we managed to come together as a country and stand united, sharing the immense pride of being Argentine.

“I also want to congratulate Spain on winning World Cup.”

Sunday’s encounter was Messi’s third appearance in the World Cup final, finishing runners-up twice (2014, 2026) and emerging as champions once (2022).