Lionel MessiThe glittering World Cup journey ended in the heartland, but the love of Argentina supporters never faded. Moments after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium, emotional scenes unfolded as Messi fought back tears as thousands of Argentina fans rose to honor the man who had carried their hopes for two decades. Even in defeat, chants of “Messi! Messi!” here around the stadium as the Argentinian faithful continued to chant for their captain. With a look of anguish on his face, the 39-year-old stood next to his teammates and acknowledged the cheers of the supporters as Spain celebrated lifting the trophy in the middle of the pitch. The defeat ended Argentina’s hopes of becoming the first nation in more than 50 years to successfully defend FIFA World Cup. Ferran Torres settled the contest just 37 seconds into the second period of extra time after being set up by Nico Williams, giving Spain a 1-0 win and their second world title. Messi, who has inspired Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and also led the country to back-to-back Copa America titles, endured a frustrating evening as Spain’s disciplined display denied him any chance of influencing the final. As Lamine Yamal rushed to celebrate Torres’ winner, Messi could only hang his head in disappointment.Spain’s dominance was reflected in the numbers. Luis de la Fuente’s side outshot Argentina 20-2, the second biggest goal differential in a World Cup final since records began in 1966, and completed 845 passes compared to Argentina’s 433. Messi, appearing in a record 34th World Cup match in six editions, found little space against Spain’s organized defence. He managed just 15 touches in the first half and finished the match with 54, rarely receiving the ball in dangerous positions. Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente admitted that containing Messi had been central to his team’s game plan. “The first idea was to keep Messi at bay,” he said. After the final whistle, several Spanish players crossed the field to hug and console the Argentine captain. Messi eventually sank to the turf, staring off into the distance before rising to collect his runner-up medal. Spain then formed a guard of honor as Argentina walked to the podium. Messi tried to smile, but his disappointment was unmistakable, with several Spanish players patting him on the back in a gesture of respect. As gold confetti rained down on the Spanish celebrations, Messi quietly left the pitch with his silver medal. His shoulders were stooped and his expression reflected the pain of a dream gone, while Argentina’s supporters continued to sing his name in appreciation of a career that has inspired generations.