Lionel Messi was pictured in tears after Argentina were beaten 1-0 by Spain in the World Cup final at the MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The 39-year-old, widely considered the greatest of all time, was hoping to help his country defend the world title they won in Qatar four years ago, but they fell short in extra time.
Decisive Goal and Ugly Scenes
Super-sub Ferran Torres stepped off the bench to fire home the decisive goal for Spain, securing a second World Cup for the European champions following their 2010 crown. After the final whistle, ugly scenes broke out as Argentine players confronted their jubilant opponents. Leandro Paredes was shown a red card for lashing out at Eric Garcia and hauling Gavi to the floor, while Nahuel Molina squared up to Spain captain Rodri.
Messi's Emotional Farewell
While the confrontations unfolded, Messi, possibly making his last World Cup appearance, was seen in tears as he processed the defeat. He was unable to influence the game significantly, well-marshalled by a Spanish defence that conceded only one goal en route to their second global triumph.
Red Card for Fernandez
Argentina, the defending champions, were reduced to ten men just before extra time when Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez received a second yellow card for a late lunge on Pau Cubarsi, having already been booked for dissent moments earlier.
