Lionel Messi’s Reaction to World Cup Defeat Shows Pride Amid Likely End of Argentina Run

At MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Lionel Messi was seen crying as he faced the Argentine fans. But these were not tears of regret or frustration. They seemed to come from someone who understands the end of an incredible journey, proud of what has been achieved and wishing there was more time, even though time always wins.

The scene might have looked similar if Argentina had won the FIFA World Cup final instead of losing 1-0 in extra time to Spain. The winning goal came from reserve striker Ferran Torres, crafted with skill and precision. Messi would simply have been wearing a gold medal rather than silver, and the mood around him would be lighter.

A Difficult Quest for Back-to-Back Titles

Argentina aimed to do something no men’s team has managed in 60 years: winning consecutive World Cups. Messi wanted to join a rare group of football legends like Garrincha, Pelé, and Ronaldo, all from Brazil, who have multiple World Cup titles. Players like Zidane, Beckenbauer, and Maradona only did it once. The challenge is immense.

The MetLife Stadium Curse?

Messi probably doesn’t believe in curses, but America has been mostly kind to him. His time at Inter Miami, the 2024 Copa América win with Argentina, and a dominant Copa América Centenario run a decade ago show that. Yet, in this stadium, Argentina struggled. In June 2016, they failed to score in the Copa América final here, and again in the World Cup final, Messi’s team scored no goals during 120 minutes.

The stadium’s name was even changed to “New York/New Jersey Stadium” for the tournament because the corporate sponsor wasn’t linked to FIFA, but it made no difference to the results.

The Weight of History

Ten years ago, Messi announced his retirement from international football after losing four straight finals, including the 2014 World Cup final and three Copa América finals. He felt burdened by living up to Maradona’s legacy, who won the 1986 World Cup. By then, Messi had Olympic gold and the FIFA U-20 World Cup but had not yet captured the senior World Cup trophy, despite his many club successes and personal awards.

His retirement lasted just weeks, and since then, he helped Argentina win three major titles and scored 70 goals in 10 years, placing him among the top 25 male goal scorers ever.

Post-Match Tensions and Reactions

The defeat brought more trouble. Midfielder Leandro Paredes received a red card after an altercation sparked by a comment from Spain’s Pedri, who taunted, “Messi missed, and now you’re all going home.” Defender Lisandro Martinez explained that emotions were running high and understood why Paredes reacted, though he stressed respect should follow any match.

Future Uncertain for Messi and Coach Scaloni

It remains unclear if this was Messi’s last game for Argentina. Coach Lionel Scaloni avoided answering questions about Messi’s future. His own contract ends this year after leading Argentina to four finals and three titles in major tournaments. The Argentine Football Association likely wants him to stay, but after a decade under intense pressure, Scaloni might want a break.

Messi, visibly emotional, said he wants time to consider his next steps. Scaloni called representing Argentina a dream and praised the team’s effort right up to the final whistle.

An Impressive Career Marked by Records

If this is Messi’s farewell, his record is remarkable: one World Cup win, two World Cup finals, two Copa América titles, five Copa América finals, 207 appearances, and 125 goals. Fans lingered after the match, reluctant to leave, possibly knowing they may never see the greatest player in history don their national colors again.

Scaloni sees value even in losing a final, saying this squad won over supporters with resilience, including comeback victories against Egypt and England and a tough win over Cabo Verde.

Final Match Performance

Argentina struggled offensively against Spain, not managing a single shot on target and only one shot from inside the box late in the game. Would playing in another stadium, like SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, have made a difference? Probably not. Distance doesn’t guarantee luck, but it’s an interesting thought.