Argentina coach in tears at World Cup press conference: It hurts our souls
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni struggled to hold back his emotions as he recalled his side’s heartbreaking World Cup final defeat to Spain, breaking down in a post-match press conference as the reality of losing the trophy began to sink in.
Scaloni had led Argentina to World Cup glory four years earlier and led them back to another final in New Jersey in hopes of defending their title. Instead, Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner handed Spain a deserved 1-0 win, ending Argentina’s reign as world champions and denying Lionel Messi the chance to exit the tournament with back-to-back titles.
The defeat capped a physically demanding campaign for Argentina, who struggled with injuries to key players and were forced into numerous changes during the knockout rounds. While Scaloni admitted the loss will hurt for a long time, he insisted he couldn’t have asked for more from a team that has once again reached football’s biggest stage.
The Argentina coach also reserved special praise for Messi, describing the 39-year-old as the greatest player to ever grace the sport and expressing his hope that the country will remember the team’s remarkable journey rather than just the result of the final.
Spain vs Argentina, World Cup Final: Highlighting
‘OUR SOULS HURT’
A visibly emotional Scaloni said the World Cup campaign had taken a heavy physical toll on his team as injuries forced Argentina to constantly rearrange their plans during the tournament.
“We had injuries in key positions that we didn’t expect. The attrition was huge, they gave their last effort,” Scaloni said.
The Argentina boss praised the character his players showed despite the setbacks and insisted that every member of the squad gave their all to achieve another World Cup triumph.
“I’m proud of how they competed. We had to make a lot of changes because of a few obstacles that came our way.”
Scaloni admitted the defeat will stick with him, saying the players left everything on the pitch.
“It hurts our souls that we couldn’t bring the cup home. This coach is happy with his players.”
He also revealed that Argentina still believed they could take the final to penalties and beyond Ferran Torres broke the deadlock in extra time.
“The minute they scored we thought we were going to go all the way and have a chance.
Despite the disappointment, Scaloni did not hesitate to acknowledge Spain’s superiority on the night.
“We have to praise the opponent.
SPECIAL WORDS FOR MESSIAH
Scaloni also paid tribute to captain Lionel Messi, whose last World Cup campaign ended in disappointment Spain successfully limited his influence throughout the final.
“Leo is 39 years old, it’s an incredible thing. It was absolutely clear to me that he will play as long as he wants. I hope people are proud of him and the team.”
The Argentina coach went one step further, calling Messi the best footballer to ever play and insisting his legacy goes far beyond trophies and statistics. Lionel Scaloni failed to defend the title of world champion in football. (Image: Reuters)
Scaloni also highlighted the determination of veteran defender Nicolas Tagliafico, revealing the full-back refused to leave the pitch despite struggling physically during the final.
“Tagliafico played a hell of a game, he didn’t want to drop out.
PROUD OF HIS WARRIORS
Although the defeat ended Argentina’s hopes of retaining the World Cup, Scaloni repeatedly thanked his players for their commitment, describing them as “true warriors” who overcame numerous obstacles to reach another final.
He also expressed his gratitude to Argentina Football Association president Claudio Tapia for giving him the opportunity to lead the national team, describing it as a privilege to work with a group that has produced so many memorable moments over the years.
In the end, Argentina were not enough for a Spanish side who dominated possession and dictated the final, but Scaloni made it clear that the result will not diminish his admiration for the team. While the pain of giving up the World Cup was evident during his emotional press conference, the coach’s main message was one of gratitude and pride after another memorable run on football’s biggest stage.
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Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
20 Jul 2026 05:55 IST