The Spanish players produced one of the decisive moments of sportsmanship after winning the FIFA World Cup 2026, forming a guard of honor for Lionel Messi and the Argentina team as they collect their runner-up medals after the final at MetLife Stadium. Moments after securing a 1-0 extra-time victory over Argentina, several Spanish players walked onto the pitch for the first time to hug and console Messi, whose hopes of leading his country to back-to-back World Cup titles had just ended. The Barcelona legend, who had struggled to make his usual impact against Spain’s disciplined defence, sank to the turf after the final whistle, staring off into the distance as the magnitude of the defeat sank in. As the medal ceremony began, Spain’s newly crowned world champions lined up to form a guard of honor for the Argentine players on their way to the podium. Messi, who was leading his teammates, tried to smile but could not hide his disappointment as he walked through the row of cheering opponents. Several Spanish players gently patted him on the back and chest in a touching display of respect for one of football’s greatest icons. Emotional scenes unfolded after Spain ended Argentina’s reign as world champions with a hard-fought win. Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal just 37 seconds into the second period of extra time after being set up by Nico Williams, giving La Roja their second FIFA World Cup title. For Messi, the defeat marked the end of his bid to become a two-time World Cup winner. Twenty years after making his World Cup debut, the 39-year-old failed to inspire Argentina to become the first nation in over 50 years to successfully defend the trophy. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni paid emotional tribute to his captain after the final. “I hope everyone feels proud of him, of what he has achieved because he is the best football player who has ever set foot on a pitch,” Scaloni said. Spain’s victory was built on complete control throughout the contest. Luis de la Fuente’s side dominated possession, outscored Argentina 845-433 and finished with a 20-2 advantage in shots, the second biggest shot differential recorded in a World Cup final since statistics began in 1966, according to Opta. The European champions also completed a remarkable tournament by conceding just one goal in eight matches while extending their unbeaten run to a European record 38 matches. Messi, appearing in a record 34th World Cup match in six tournaments, found little joy against Spain’s organized defence. He managed just 15 touches in the opening half and 54 overall, rarely receiving the ball in dangerous areas. Spanish coach Luis de la Fuente then revealed the team’s clear objective. “The first idea was to keep Messi at bay,” he said. As Spain celebrated with the World Cup trophy and golden confetti filled the air, Messi calmly left the field with his silver medal, shoulders lifted after another unforgettable chapter in one of football’s greatest careers came to a painful end.