BUENOS AIRES, Argentina — Argentine fans reacted with disappointment and emotion Sunday after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in the FIFA World Cup final, ending the country’s title defense and likely marking Lionel Messi’s final World Cup appearance.
Supporters gathered at bars and public viewing areas across Buenos Aires watched Spain secure the championship with an extra-time goal by Ferran Torres. Many fans expressed sadness that the 39-year-old Messi may have played his last World Cup match.
“I feel empty because of Messi. I won’t see him in a World Cup again,” said Camilo Cichero, a 22-year-old architecture student watching the match at Cafe Relax in downtown Buenos Aires.
Juan Saenz, a 22-year-old law student, said the defeat marked the end of an era for Argentine football.
Despite the loss, thousands of supporters later gathered around the Obelisk, Buenos Aires’ traditional celebration site, to applaud the national team. Many said they planned to welcome the squad home on Monday.
President Javier Milei thanked the team in a post on X, writing, “Thank you so much, players. You fought until the very end. Argentina will always stand tall.”
Fans packed bars and public squares before kickoff, hoping Argentina would capture its second consecutive World Cup title. The atmosphere shifted from optimism to tension as the match remained scoreless through regulation.
Argentina’s chances became more difficult after midfielder Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card and was sent off. Ferran Torres scored the winning goal in extra time to secure Spain’s victory.
Following the match, some fans criticized Argentina’s performance, while others praised the team’s effort throughout the tournament.
In Messi’s hometown of Rosario, hundreds gathered to honor the captain and the national team with chants and fireworks despite the defeat.