Lionel Messi has expressed profound sadness following Argentina‘s 1-0 defeat to Spain in the World Cup final. The match, decided by Ferran Torres‘ extra-time goal, marked Spain‘s second victory in the tournament’s history. Messi, who previously lost a final in 2014, stated that the pain is immense and will require time to heal.
Despite the loss, Messi reflected on the positive aspects of Argentina‘s campaign, including their ability to unite the country and reach two consecutive World Cup finals. He acknowledged the support from fans and the team’s hard work, which he believes brought them back among the world’s elite. Messi also extended congratulations to Spain for their championship win.
The 39-year-old contributed eight goals and four assists during Argentina‘s journey to the final, playing a crucial role in their knockout stage victories against Egypt and England. However, they were unable to overcome a Spain team that conceded only one goal throughout the entire tournament. Messi has not yet clarified his future in international football.
Spain’s triumphant return
Following their victory, Spain‘s World Cup-winning squad returned home to a grand reception in Madrid. An estimated 1.8 million people gathered to greet the team as they paraded through the city’s streets. The players and coaching staff first met with the country’s royals and Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez.
Prime Minister Sanchez commended the team for their style of play, effort, and victory, stating that the nation truly enjoyed watching them compete. The squad then boarded an open-top bus adorned with the message “Stars shine together” and photos of the footballers. They carried the World Cup trophy and wore shirts emblazoned with “Somos Campeones” (“We Are Champions”), dancing and interacting with the enthusiastic crowds.
Coach Luis de la Fuente expressed his joy and pride in representing a country with such passionate fans. The parade proceeded from near Moncloa Palace to Cibeles Square, a traditional celebration spot for Spain‘s teams and Real Madrid. Authorities reported that approximately 120,000 people were present at Cibeles Square for a ceremony featuring performances by singers Aitana, Ana Mena, and Lola Índigo.
Fans had begun securing their spots early, bringing umbrellas to shield themselves from temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius. The celebrations in Madrid began immediately after the final whistle, with thousands pouring into the streets, many draped in Spanish flags. Crowds packed major squares like Puerta del Sol, singing, dancing, and setting off flares.
Team reactions and disciplinary actions
Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who received a second yellow card in injury time for a challenge on Pau Cubarsi, shared his sentiments on social media. He affirmed that he and his teammates had defended their colours with pride, humility, and commitment, adding that the team’s journey teaches that competing involves giving one’s all for the jersey and never giving up.
Meanwhile, FIFA’s disciplinary committee has initiated an investigation into altercations between players from both teams that occurred at the final whistle. A disciplinary and ethics prosecutor has been appointed to look into the incidents.
The men’s World Cup victory, combined with Spain‘s win in the Women’s World Cup in 2023, makes Spain the first nation to hold both titles simultaneously. The triumph marks the first time many young supporters have witnessed the men’s team lift the trophy, with celebrations continuing into the early hours of Monday morning.
However, the celebrations were marred by a tragic incident in Salamanca, northwest of Madrid, where local authorities reported the death of a 13-year-old after a fountain he had climbed onto with friends collapsed during the festivities.
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Source: bbc.com
Ethan Brule is a Senior Hockey Writer at CasinoNews. He covered the NHL for a national Canadian outlet. He focuses on the NHL, the Maple Leafs and Team Canada and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Media from Toronto Metropolitan University. Now based in Toronto, he plays beer-league hockey and follows the junior ranks. “Hockey in Canada is never only about the score.”
