Lionel Messi showed his true character with a kind gesture to his Argentina teammates after their World Cup final defeat to Spain. The defending champions lost 1-0 after extra time, with Ferran Torres scoring in the 166th minute.
Heartfelt generosity
The girlfriend of Argentina defender Marcos Senesi revealed that Messi gave a gift pack to every player, including Manchester United's Lisandro Martinez and Chelsea's Enzo Fernandez. Each pack contained a personalised backpack, a customised water bottle, and a complete yerba mate set, a popular drink in Argentina.
Defeat and criticism
This was Messi's second World Cup final loss, having previously lost in 2014 before winning in 2022. The defeat sparked criticism over Argentina's behaviour, including Leandro Paredes attacking Spain players and the team turning their backs on trophy celebrations.
Family support
Messi's wife, Antonela, defended the team on social media, sharing a message from writer Connie Ansaldi: "Proud to be Argentine. Argentina is exactly like a family; we may disagree and quarrel amongst ourselves, but if someone from outside comes and insults us, we will tear out their liver."
Antonela also paid tribute to Messi on Instagram, writing: "You will always be the best, @leomessi. Not just because of your talent, but because you have never stopped being yourself... I admire you more than words can express, and I feel immensely proud to walk through life by your side."
