‘Your tears are our tears, captain’: Heartbroken Lionel Messi breaks down after World Cup final defeat – Watch

Argentina’s Lionel Messi at the end of the World Cup final. (AP photo) Lionel Messi’s dream of signing back-to-back World Cup titles ended in heartbreak on Sunday when the Argentina captain was overcome with emotion following his side’s 0-1 extra-time loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. Viral images and videos of a tearful Messi struggling to contain his emotions after winning a runner-up medal quickly spread across social media, prompting an emotional tribute from Argentina Football Association (AFA).Spain ended Argentina’s reign as world champions thanks to substitute Ferran Torres’ decisive strike in the 106th minute, denying Messi one last fairy-tale ending in what is widely expected to be his last appearance at the World Cup.

AFA’s emotional tribute to Messi melts hearts

Soon after the final whistle, the AFA shared a heartfelt message dedicated to their legendary captain, whose emotional breakdown resonated with millions of fans around the world.“Your tears are our tears, Captain. You gave us the greatest joys of our lives. Thank you for your sacrifice, for the magic, and for giving everything until the last second. We love you forever, Leo!” the federation wrote on X.Messi could hardly hide his emotions as he watched Spain celebrate as Argentina collected their medals in second place. Cameras caught the 39-year-old tearfully looking at the crowd before bowing his head in disappointment.The defeat marked the end of one of the greatest eras in Argentine football history. Messi led La Albiceleste to the 2022 FIFA World Cup title and added Copa America triumphs in 2021 and 2024. However, the dream of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup faded away against a dominant Spanish side.WATCH:

Spain ended Argentina’s reign in dominant fashion

While the score indicated a very competitive match, Spain controlled almost every aspect of the final.La Roja enjoyed overwhelming possession, completing almost twice as many passes and finishing with a staggering 20-1 advantage in shots. Argentina were heavily restricted throughout the match and their task was made even tougher after Enzo Fernandez was shown a second yellow card late in normal time, forcing Lionel Scaloni’s side to play the entire extra-time with 10 men.The breakthrough finally came just 37 seconds into the second half of overtime. Pedro Porro floated a deep cross into the area, Nico Williams headed the ball back across goal and Ferran Torres arrived perfectly to finish with his left foot into the roof of the net beyond Emiliano Martinez.The goal secured Spain’s second FIFA World Cup title and their first since 2010.