Lionel Messi has congratulated Spain and opened up about the 'immense' agony of losing his second World Cup final. The Argentina captain's magic ran out in New York as Spain lifted their second World Cup, with the defending champions failing to register a single shot on target.
Messi's Emotional Message
In an emotional letter published on social media, Messi wrote: 'The pain is immense. It will take time for this wound to heal. But I also choose to hold on to all the good things, all matches we turned around by giving everything and moments that will remain in our memories forever.' He added: 'I will always remember the support of an entire country that, together with the work and effort of this group, brought us back once again among the best teams in the world.'
At 39 years old, Messi will be 43 by the time the next World Cup arrives, making this year's tournament almost certainly his last. The Barcelona icon went into the MetLife Stadium with eight goals and four assists, having downed England with two assists in the semi-final. However, the Euro 2024 winners added the World Cup to their growing trophy cabinet, leaving Messi crying on the pitch.
Match Details
Former Manchester City forward Ferran Torres was the one with the Midas touch in the Big Apple, after Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off for two bookable offences. The atmosphere following the World Cup final was soured by unsavoury scenes as both Nahuel Molina and Leandro Paredes turned on their opponents.
Wayne Rooney was swift to condemn their behaviour, remarking: 'Does it surprise you? It doesn't surprise me. We've seen this with Argentina before. It's just not the reaction you want. We've seen some of the reaction after knocking England out in the last round. That's just sad. If you lose a game of football, be graceful and get out of there. It's really poor from them.'
Messi's Gratitude
Messi concluded his message by thanking fans and congratulating Spain: 'Today, it is difficult to appreciate what we achieved... but this group has really reached two consecutive World Cup finals. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and every message. Once again, we managed to come together as a country and stand united, sharing the immense pride of being Argentine. I also want to congratulate Spain on winning World Cup.'
