With a sincere and visibly affected tone, the coach who led Argentina to the 2022 World Cup title in Qatar expressed his sadness over not being able to bring home another trophy. “After an intense week where sadness has been intertwined with joy, tears with a smile, anguish with calm, nerves with tranquility, I can sit down to write a few words, which although you know I do not like social media very much, might be the best medium to get it to you,” Scaloni wrote.

“I can only say I am sorry for not being able to bring you another trophy and give you a new joy that, even if only for a few days, might make you forget all the bad things in life. But I want you to hold onto what we have tried to show you through this group of players, my warriors, as I defined them when I spoke about them to my wife.

“The effort, the desire, the wanting to, the ‘I can’, not giving up (even when everything gets tough), giving it all (even when you have nothing left), enduring cold buckets of water (FROM PEOPLE WHO DO NOT KNOW US), knowing how to be, wanting to keep standing when your legs no longer obey your brain. That is the true trophy. Eternally grateful to my coaching staff, players, AFA staff, those who quietly work so that we are comfortable, and to each of you for the affection received.”

Fan support for Scaloni

Within minutes, the post was filled with thousands of supportive and grateful comments from fans who highlighted the work done by the coaching staff and the squad.

Scaloni‘s words arrived after a World Cup in which Argentina once again competed among the best on the planet. His message transcended the sporting result to focus on collective effort, resilience, and the values that, according to the coach, define the group he led over recent years.

A symbolic ending to the letter

The publication concluded with a postscript that moved his followers once again and quickly began going viral across social media: “Whoever has an Argentine friend has a treasure.”

Far from focusing solely on the defeat, Lionel Scaloni’s letter sought to give new meaning to the journey taken by Argentina throughout his successful tenure in the 2026 World Cup.

“[Was the officiating unfair?] No, we lost because Spain were better than us,” Scaloni confessed to reporters as he arrived at his hometown of Pujato in Argentina. “We’ve got to admit it, they played better. [Admitting that] will make us better in the long run.”

Although Scaloni believes Enzo Fernandez’s first yellow card was avoidable, he didn’t blame Vincic for the loss. It pains Argentina, but Spain were the better side in the final and, therefore, deserving World Cup winners. Despite Marc Cucurella rubbing salt in Argentina’s wounds during Spain’s parade, Scaloni isn’t above giving credit where it’s due, and he praised Luis de la Fuente’s side.

Exhausted Argentina

Scaloni also mentioned how Argentina arrived at the game battle-weary after exhausting and nail-biting showdowns in every round of the 2026 World Cup knockout stage. That fatigue was visible, as Spain appeared to outnumber Argentina in every area of the field.

In reality, it was because the Spaniards were better positioned and far more rested, allowing them to cover areas of the pitch that the Argentines simply couldn’t reach as quickly.

In the knockout stage, Argentina needed extra time to get past Cape Verde (Round of 32) and Switzerland (quarterfinals). They also found late winners in added time against Egypt (Round of 16) and England (semifinals) after trailing late in the second half. Clearly, it all added up.

Spain’s road

Spain, on the other hand, only reached extra time once in the 2026 World Cup, and that was in the final. In the championship game, they played the entire extra time with a man advantage after Enzo Fernandez was shown a red card.

Although Spain also needed late winners to defeat Portugal (Round of 16) and Belgium (quarterfinals), they didn’t suffer as much as Argentina did in the games in which they scored those agonizing goals.

That takes nothing away from Spain; in fact, it should be to their credit, as they dominated the action in every game. Still, any analysis of the final wouldn’t be complete without taking each team’s path into account.

“The figure of Messi is just… he’s 39 years old!” Scaloni said after the match. “I was absolutely certain he would keep playing for as long as he wanted. I hope he’s proud of his teammates—and I know he is—and that the people are proud, too. In my view, he is the greatest footballer to ever step onto a pitch, regardless of what he’s done in this World Cup.”

In statistical terms, Lionel Messi delivered his most productive World Cup performance yet. He netted 8 goals and recorded 4 assists across the tournament. However, he was unable to secure a second consecutive trophy and lost another final in his career.

An uncertain future for Argentina

During the post-match press conference, head coach Lionel Scaloni cast doubt on his own future with Argentina. It has been an extraordinary tenure for Scaloni, highlighted by leading La Albiceleste in 2022 to its first World Cup crown since 1986.

With Messi seen in tears after the grueling defeat, many fans suspect this was his final World Cup appearance. While he previously suggested this tournament would be his “last dance,” he has yet to make an official decision regarding international retirement.

Several core members of Argentina’s squad are unlikely to return for the 2030 World Cup. Combined with Scaloni hinting at a potential departure, South American football faces a major period of transition.

Spain capitalizes on the extra man

In the closing moments of regulation time, midfielder Enzo Fernandez was sent off following a second yellow card. Scaloni noted after the match that the situation could have been avoided, as that single moment dramatically reshaped the contest.

Playing with a one-man advantage, Spain dominated extra time. Ferran Torres—who offered high praise for Messi after the final—struck in the 106th minute to deliver the winning goal, securing La Roja’s second World Cup title.

“I have an idea of what I want. I will complete my contract. I’m grateful to the [Argentine soccer federation, AFA] president [Claudio Tapia] for the opportunity. We tried until the end with the coaching staff and players. I believe it’s fair for me to take some time and decide my future,” Scaloni said during his press conference.

“This place is wonderful, it’s really a dream job. Never in my life had I thought to be in this place. In order to continue we need a lot of things, form a group like this one, which will hardly form again. It pains me in my soul.”

Before he could muster another word, Scaloni, already sobbing with his voice cracking, walked off the podium and left the room as a round of applause followed him down the tunnel. In a tough moment for Argentina, Scaloni made a bold statement that only raises more questions.

Scaloni’s future

As things stand, Scaloni is under contract with Argentina through December 2026. He made it clear that he will at least coach through that date. What will happen next? That’s where the uncertainty begins. Scaloni has been one of the most successful coaches Argentina has ever had.

If they have to deal with the 2026 World Cup defeat, the rumors around Lionel Messi’s potential retirement from the national team, and Scaloni’s exit on top of it all, it may simply be too much to take. When referee Slavko Vincic blew the full-time whistle, all the emotions came crashing down on Argentina.

First, Leandro Paredes stirred up a brawl after Spain defeated Argentina. Later, during the trophy presentation, Messi was seen crying his eyes out after receiving the silver medal. As he donned that medal for the second time in his career, it all finally clicked for Messi: this may have been his last shot at another championship with his country, and it slipped away.

Déjà vu for Argentina

One decade ago, Argentina lost the Copa America final to Chile at MetLife Stadium. Exactly ten years later, La Albiceleste fell in another heartbreaking championship game. After the loss to Chile in 2016, Messi shocked the world by announcing his retirement from the national team.

Perhaps history has repeated itself, only this time it’s Scaloni who has opened the door to a potential exit. And for the time being, Messi has yet to address the media after the final. Who knows if this will truly be the end of an era in every sense of the word.

Following Fernandez’s dismissal, the complexion of the match shifted dramatically as Argentina were forced to navigate the pitch down to 10 men. While the tactical fallout from the red card raises several questions about Argentina’s late-game approach, Scaloni was candid in his post-match assessment, admitting that Spain were simply the superior team on the day.

Prior to his ejection, Fernandez failed to spark the offense or create dangerous chances in the final third. His struggles mirrored a broader toothless attack, as a dominant Spain completely stifled the Albiceleste and prevented them from registering a single shot on target.

An emotional Scaloni grew visibly choked up when discussing Lionel Messi and what likely marks the legendary playmaker’s final World Cup appearance. While the final presented a golden opportunity for Scaloni to secure back-to-back global titles, Scaloni’s immediate future with the national team is now shrouded in uncertainty after he abruptly walked out of the press conference in tears.

Scaloni’s tenure with Argentina

Despite falling just short against Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, Scaloni’s historic six-year run at the helm has solidified Argentina as a global powerhouse. Here is a look at the remarkable numbers compiled during his tenure:

Now, in the wake of the heartbreaking defeat, Argentina will fly back to Buenos Aires on Monday. Despite the sting of losing the final, a massive turnout is expected from the home supporters, who are ready to embrace the squad and celebrate a gritty tournament run.

“Sadness,” Scaloni said about his feelings right after the game. “But knowing that we gave everything, I have a lot to say about how we got here, but it’s not worth it. Eternal gratitude to these guys who competed until the end. Spain was better, that’s true, but I will keep a great memory. This hurts a lot. We have to be great in defeat as well. We showed that we know how to lose, but that doesn’t mean we are going to forget everything we did to get here.

“I am grateful to the players and I want to tell the country that we gave everything. We arrived here at an unfair moment, it’s true. You lose, and you have to get back up; there is no other option. I remember the runners-up because it is incredibly difficult to reach this stage, and we have to give it enormous value. Obviously, it hurts us. Gratitude and sadness, of course. But when you play like this and give everything, it’s difficult to criticize anything.”

Spain showed no mercy against Argentina throughout regulation time, especially after Enzo Fernandez’s sending-off. In this way, La Roja secured another World Cup title. This now leaves Scaloni’s future up in the air, as the Argentine coach burst into tears during his postgame press conference.

The dream that fell short

The image of Lionel Messi in tears perfectly reflects the hopes and dreams this team carried. Argentina had delivered a strong World Cup campaign, but in the final match, nothing went as planned.

Spain was the better team. and Luis de la Fuente believes his side should have scored earlier. That was evident on the field, as Argentina failed to register a single shot on target throughout the 90 minutes of the match.

Rodri was awarded the World Cup Golden Ball, even ahead of Messi, who also had an excellent tournament. It remains to be seen what decision the No. 10 will make regarding the future of his career.

Much has been said about Argentina’s journey through the 2026 World Cup. After the 3-2 win in the Round of 16, Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan accused Lionel Messi and Argentina of being favored. That narrative spread and has clearly been heard by the reigning World Cup champions. However, Scaloni put it all to rest.

“The conversation around us being favored will linger. With VAR it’s difficult to be helped, though. We know it’s not like that, we’re not being helped,” Scaloni said during his press conference before setting his sights on Spain.

Scaloni and Argentina shift focus to Spain

“Spain are a great team. They deserved to win against France in the semifinals. We had already analyzed them in March, they’ve changed a bit, but they are still a great team and everybody knows how they play. We’re ready,”Scaloni admitted. “It’s going to be a game for people to enjoy.”

Argentina and Spain were set to face in the Finalissima (CONMEBOL-UEFA Cup of Champions) prior to the 2026 World Cup. However, that game was postponed as the two soccer associations couldn’t agree on a venue and date.

One way or the other, however, the two sides will meet. And what better stage for them to settle the score than in the World Cup final. For the first time since 1966, Spain and Argentina will go head-to-head in soccer’s biggest tournament.

Storylines to watch in 2026 World Cup final

Refereeing accusations and nonsensical talk aside, the 2026 World Cup final will be one of the biggest games in tournament history. Although that’s saying a lot, it might still be an understatement. Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal will face off on a soccer pitch for the first time.

It will also be the first time the reigning European and South American champions meet in a World Cup final. The 2026 World Cup final will also be an all-Spanish-speaking affair—for the first time since 1930, when Uruguay and Argentina met at the inaugural World Cup final.

“I’m speechless. I’m so happy for this group and for our people; they never stop amazing me. It’s hard to put into words what these players continue to show. We are unique, truly. These people inspire us to keep winning,” the manager said after the match.

Now, Argentina will face Spain next Sunday to determine whether they can lift the World Cup trophy once again. Driven by their tradition, resilience, and heart, La Albiceleste are aiming to reach the summit of world soccer one more time.

Enzo opened the door

After Anthony Gordon opened the scoring, the match slowly began to tighten up. However, Argentina have an ace up their sleeve — the kind of player that few teams have in their squads and who can often make the difference.

Lionel Messi provided two assists, continuing to add to his legendary legacy in the sport. On the first one, Enzo Fernandez scored the equalizer with a powerful right-footed strike from outside the box. In the final moments of the match, after a cross from the No. 10, Lautaro Martinez headed home to seal the 2-1 victory.

England’s heartbreak

England were eliminated by Argentina after they appeared the match was slipping into the Europeans’ hands. The heartbreak was complete, and this team will have to wait a little longer to win the World Cup title once again.

1966 was the last and only time England lifted the World Cup trophy, and this time it will not be the occasion to celebrate another title. The consolation for Thomas Tuchel and his squad will be the chance to secure third place next Saturday.

What’s next for Argentina?

Spain and Argentina will go head-to-head on Sunday, to determine who will be crowned champion of the 2026 World Cup. La Roja advanced after eliminating France, while La Albiceleste reached the final by defeating England.

The match already has a confirmed venue and schedule: kickoff is set for 3 PM ET, with the iconic New York New Jersey Stadium serving as the host venue. The two teams competing for third place will play on Saturday at Miami Stadium.

As the final countdown gets underway, Scaloni admitted there could be some changes to the starting XI, which would be surprising considering Argentina have fielded a very similar lineup throughout the tournament. With reports suggesting Scaloni is planning a change that puts Rodrigo De Paul’s spot in jeopardy, the World Cup-winning manager didn’t exactly clear the air.

“There could be a change with the idea of hurting the opponent. You’ll find out tomorrow,” Scaloni said during his press conference on Tuesday. “I already have the starting lineup in my head. I just haven’t told the players yet. They always hear it first. We could make a change with the idea of hurting the opponent while also protecting ourselves from their strengths.”

High stakes for Argentina vs England

Argentina are set to face England at a World Cup for the first time since 2002. Lionel Messi was only 14 years old the last time Argentina and England met in soccer’s biggest tournament, and this will be his first matchup against the Three Lions. Needless to say, the hype is at an all-time high for both sides.

It’s no wonder the buzz around both teams’ lineups is so intense. While England have brushed off health concerns surrounding Declan Rice and Nico O’Reilly and seemingly been given the green light to field their best possible lineup, Argentina may not have the same luxury.

Reports around Argentina’s lineup

In need of answers, there is plenty of speculation about what Argentina’s lineup will look like to face England in Atlanta, Georgia. Perhaps De Paul will indeed be benched, and one of Giuliano Simeone, Nicolas Gonzalez, or Exequiel Palacios will be handed the reins.

Alternative options include deploying a five-man back line in which Simeone and Gonzalez could start on the flanks, with Cristian Romero, Nicolas Otamendi, and Lisandro Martinez holding down the fort.

The possibilities are endless for Scaloni and his staff, which is both a blessing and a never-ending headache. With the fate of the national team on the line and a ticket to yet another World Cup final at stake, any misstep could sound the death knell for Argentina, so caution and extra caution are the name of the game.

While many are focused on external factors, such as the British media’s reaction to the referee assignment for Argentina vs. England, Scaloni is nose-deep in tactical analysis. According to Argentine reporter Diego Monroig of ESPN, Scaloni is holding a three-man competition for a spot in midfield. The contenders are De Paul, Giuliano Simeone, and Nicolas Gonzalez.

De Paul has been one of the most criticized players on the roster so far at the 2026 World Cup, as he’s looked a step off and hasn’t been the engine of the team as he usually is. Simeone has played just one game at the 2026 World Cup (against Jordan in the group stage). As for Gonzalez, he’s been the first substitute in virtually every game, but he has yet to make a start.

Whoever earns the position will likely play in midfield close to the touchline, with the task of covering the entire flank—an area where England can do a lot of damage from. If Gonzalez starts, he will likely do so on the left side of the field, while De Paul or Simeone would line up on the right.

If De Paul is benched, Argentina face three options

In the event that Scaloni does indeed take De Paul out of Argentina’s starting XI, there are three possible scenarios, according to ESPN’s Leo Paradizo. One alternative is to have Gonzalez enter the starting lineup in place of De Paul but on the left side, while Alexis Mac Allister shifts to the right. Argentina would line up in a 4-4-2 formation, with Leandro Paredes and Enzo Fernandez completing the midfield.

Another option is for Simeone to replace De Paul on the right side of midfield, while Mac Allister moves to the left. Argentina would keep its current tactical setup, which is a hybrid of a 4-4-2 and a 4-1-3-2 formation.

The third and final option, according to reports, is for Exequiel Palacios to earn the starting job, adding another possession-oriented midfielder to a crucial area of the pitch. Although Palacios appears to be a step behind Simeone and Gonzalez, he is a different type of player than the two wingers. If Scaloni wants to go with a different player profile to replace De Paul, Palacios is the leading option.

De Paul’s comments

Ahead of the long-awaited showdown against England, De Paul shared a candid statement about his emotions leading up to a game unlike any other the national team has played before. Just like Lionel Messi was 14 years old the last time Argentina and England met in a World Cup, De Paul was only 8 in 2002. Needless to say, this game has been a long time coming.

“Tomorrow’s game will be unique. I can’t wait to play. I love these kind of games, they motivate me, and bring out so many emotions in me,” De Paul admitted to reporters on Tuesday. “[England’s] a team I’ve never faced before. I’m experiencing this with a lot of joy and excitement. I can’t wait for tomorrow to arrive.”

Following the match, Scaloni was fully aware that Argentina must improve in a semifinal bracket that features the top four teams in the world, but he also praised England. “We have things to improve, but winning is always better. That being said, today was historic,” Scaloni said postgame.

“We are going to face a team that plays very well, that has a great coach,” he added. Scaloni already has his eyes on the decisive matchup that could place them in the final for the second consecutive time, all while Lionel Messi remains in the hunt for the Golden Boot.

Scaloni remains optimistic despite the opponent

With England already confirmed as the opponent, Scaloni assured that the adversary will not change the national team’s preparation and highlighted the high level of any team reaching this stage of the tournament.

“It did not matter if it was England or Norway; we are going to face a good team,” he stated. Finally, the head coach made it clear what the priority will be before Wednesday’s semifinal in Atlanta. “We are going to recover, which is the most important thing,” he concluded, referring to the physical toll left by another 120-minute match.

The qualification was settled in the second half of extra time thanks to a spectacular goal by Julian Alvarez in the 112th minute, which broke a highly balanced duel in Kansas City. With that goal, and the late addition from Lautaro Martinez, Argentina secured the final 3-1 scoreline and took another step in the defense of the title they won four years ago.

The matchup between Argentina and England is scheduled for July 15, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. It will be the final match of the semifinals, hosted at Atlanta Stadium in the United States. One day earlier, France and Spain will clash in Dallas for the first ticket to the final, which is scheduled for Sunday, July 19, at 3 PM (ET) in New York.