Lionel Messi loses World Cup final to Spain, returns home in tears

Argentina fell 1‑0 to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, leaving Lionel Messi in tears as he left the field. After the defeat, Messi posted virtually nothing on social media and did not travel with his teammates.

A few days later, the star returned to Rosario and was spotted watching a local match between Leones de Rosario and Central Córdoba alongside his son Mateo. The sight highlighted Messi's need for family time and his emotional state after the tournament.