Messi: The pain is extremely severe

Miami – AFP – While Argentina national team star Lionel Messi expressed “extreme pain,” Spain national team captain Rodri affirmed that “winning with your country is the most beautiful thing in the world,” following La Roja’s crowning as 2026 FIFA World Cup champions after defeating the Albiceleste 1-0 in extra time in the final match in New Jersey.

In his first statement since the final defeat, Messi (39), who shed tears after the loss, wrote on his Instagram account: “The pain is extremely intense, and it is difficult for this wound to heal. But I also hold onto all the positive aspects.”

He added: “It is difficult today to truly appreciate what we have achieved, but this team has reached two consecutive World Cup finals.” He also congratulated Spain on winning the title.

Messi spoke of thrilling victories over England and Egypt that “will remain etched in our memories forever,” and of “the support of an entire country,” which allowed the Albiceleste to “be among the best national teams in the world again.”

Messi did not address his future with the national team in his message.

The Rosario native scored eight goals during the tournament but failed to leave his mark in the final match, just as his national team failed to threaten the more organized Spanish side.

In World Cup finals, Messi has lost two (2014 and 2026) compared to winning one title in 2022 in Qatar against France.

According to local sources confirmed to Agence France-Presse, Messi arrived in his country yesterday to spend some time resting with his family in Rosario.

In Madrid, midfielder Rodri stated that “winning with your national team is the most beautiful thing in the world,” during a reception held at the Spanish government headquarters under the leadership of Pedro Sánchez.

Rodri said: “I always say: winning with your national team is the most beautiful thing in the world, especially at the World Cup. Lifting the trophy is the greatest achievement you can accomplish in football.”

He added: “This generation grew up watching (Iker) Casillas and (Andrés) Iniesta lift the trophy (2010), and to be able to achieve that today is the greatest accomplishment you can achieve in football.”