Lionel Messi and Argentina have failed in their quest to retain the World Cup against Spain, falling to a 1-0 defeat at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
It was as one-sided a final as you’ll see, with the defending champions unable to get any sort of grasp on the game.
When the full-time whistle blew, it was jubilation for the Spanish. Despite some ugly post-match scenes involving Leandro Paredes and Gavi, Spain were letting nothing get in the way of their celebrations.
As for Messi, who carried his nation on his shoulders for the past few weeks, it was scenes of heartbreak.
He sat on the turf and let the moment sit. Some of his closest friends and the stars of the club in his heart have just experienced the ecstasy of their country winning the World Cup — something he’s familiar with.
But that will offer little consolation. This was likely his last chance to win football’s biggest prize, and he was let down by his team.
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