Lionel Messi may have possibly signed off from the international football like a veteran magician leaving his stage for the final time. During the last two World Cup campaigns, Messi showed how he was able to galvanise the Argentina team for a common goal. 

July 20 : Lionel Messi said Argentina's World Cup final defeat by Spain had left "immense" pain but praised his team for reaching a second successive final and thanked supporters for uniting behind the national side.Spain beat Argentina 1-0 after extra time in Sunday's final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, wi

Wayne Rooney criticises Lionel Messi for unsporting conduct during Argentina's 1-0 World Cup final defeat to Spain, as FIFA investigates post-match tensions.

The Inter Miami forward made his first public comments on Instagram on Monday after Argentina's 1-0 extra-time defeat at the MetLife Stadium in New York.

FIFA has faced criticism from parts of the Argentine media over its decision not to award Lionel Messi the Golden Ball at the 2026 World Cup.

Wayne Rooney criticises Lionel Messi's behaviour during the 2026 World Cup final, calling it desperation after Messi attempted to influence the referee against Spain

Spain's 2010 World Cup hero Joan Capdevila denied US entry before the 2026 final. He appeals to Trump for help, missing a chance to support La Roja with his kids.

Fans braved cold and rain in Buenos Aires to welcome the Argentine squad after their World Cup final loss to Spain, with promises of a public holiday to celebrate.

Argentine President Javier Milei will skip the 2026 World Cup final against Spain due to superstition, opting to watch from his residence as his team seeks victory.