Messi published a social media post congratulating Spain while noting that it will be a difficult final to get over. In the comments of that post, Gavi showed the utmost respect, writing “the number 1 always,” accompanied by a red heart emoji.

Even though Spain are in full celebration mode—where Marc Cucurella sang provocative songs—Gavi took the time to show respect. The heated exchange and sharp clash with opponents did not mean he stopped admiring who he considers the best soccer player of all time, someone who was part of his dream club, FC Barcelona.

Gavi vs Paredes?

Jokes about the clash also emerged during the celebrations. Gavi is well known for being a physical player who does not fear a fight or hard tackles—sharing similar characteristics with Leandro Paredes. While celebrating, Lamine Yamal was seen holding a sign.

The sign read “Leandro Paredes vs Gavi in La Velada del Ano,” referencing an amateur boxing event organized by Spanish streamer Ibai, where content creators and celebrities train to box—an event the young players are surely following closely.

No surprise in Gavi’s recognition

The show of respect came as no surprise. Although they never shared a locker room in Spain, Gavi grew up watching Messi’s most brilliant era at Barcelona. In fact, the Spaniard debuted for the first team during the 2021-22 season, the same season Leo departed for Paris Saint-Germain. Not even the joy of winning the World Cup dimmed the admiration he feels for one of his idols.

The signs of respect toward Argentina did not stop there. The Spanish right back, Pedro Porro, was also asked about the flow of the final and the “aggressive” playing style of Lionel Scaloni’s squad. Rather than fueling the debate, he chose to highlight Argentina‘s path.

“It is their way of playing and I don’t have to counter that. At the end of the day, they have been a great national team throughout the World Cup and showed it by coming back in matches,” he stated.

In a conversation with Mundo Deportivo, he added: “They also deserved to be in the final and the truth is that it was a very beautiful final. Luckily, it fell our way. Also, congratulations to them for the great work they have done throughout the World Cup.”

On Monday, Fernandez highlighted the Albiceleste’s effort throughout the World Cup, emphasizing that they “always stepped up” and competed to the maximum. “When time passes, you understand that there is something much bigger than a result,” Fernandez expressed via his Instagram profile.

The midfielder, sent off near the end of regulation time during Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain, which also ended in a brawl, did not refer to the red card itself. “For years this group has represented in the best way,” Fernandez added. “It teaches that competing is not just about winning, but about leaving everything for the shirt, and never dropping your hands.”

Enzo’s pride

Fernandez has consistently demonstrated his commitment when playing for Argentina, acting as one of the players who brings the most passion and energy while delivering key appearances for the national team. He expressed his pride in “being part of this group that always stepped up, that competed to the maximum, and that defended these colors with pride, humility, and commitment.”

“I want to thank all the Argentine fans. Thank you for always being there, for accompanying us in every match, for the affection, for the unconditional support, and for making us feel at home anywhere in the world,” the Chelsea player added. “Wearing my country’s shirt is the greatest honor of my career, and I will continue giving everything every time I get to defend it.”

Fernandez, along with the rest of the squad, chose not to speak in the mixed zone at New York/New Jersey Stadium following the match against Spain. However, on the afternoon of July 20, he broke his silence on social media, signaling the deep pain stemming from the final loss.

What did Lionel Scaloni say about Enzo Fernandez’s red card?

During the post-match press conference, head coach Lionel Scaloni was asked about the red card, responding that from his point of view, the referee could have avoided issuing the first yellow.

“I think the referee could have avoided the first yellow card to Enzo Fernandez,” Scaloni stated. “Logically, it’s a World Cup final, and I think there are things that could be avoided, but that’s it; there are no reproaches.”

On his show Sports Uncensored, Morgan called Paredes a “little rat” while trying to single out the absolute worst performer of the World Cup final. He took aim at the Argentine midfielder alongside Simon Jordan and John Terry, who simply laughed as he spoke.

It was obvious Paredes was going to draw heavy fire, especially after his post-match clash with Spain’s players while they were celebrating on the pitch. The footage went viral worldwide, and FIFA announced it would be looking into the incident.

Morgan also targets Gianni Infantino

FIFA President Gianni Infantino was another target of Morgan’s wrath, landing on the host’s list of the worst figures at the 2026 World Cup. Infantino also became a magnet for memes and heavy criticism online over claims that FIFA showed favoritism toward Argentina.

Calling Infantino “the biggest pr—“ was a direct shot at the head of global soccer. Time will tell if the FIFA boss takes any action against Morgan, who is notoriously ruthless in his commentary, not just about the World Cup, but about players and the transfer market as a whole.

Morgan relished Argentina’s loss to Spain

Beyond calling Paredes a rat, Morgan slammed the team’s behavior as completely out of line, calling it “the most disgusting thing I’ve seen in World Cup history!” Simon Jordan chimed in as well, adding, “I don’t have any empathy [for Argentina].”

Shortly after Lamine Yamal added fuel to the fire around Paredes and Gavi’s fight with a sign, the rest of the Spanish team arrived at Plaza de Cibeles in Madrid, where hundreds of thousands of fans awaited them. As each player was introduced individually with a song of their own choice, there was much speculation about how Cucurella would take the stage. Needless to say, he didn’t disappoint and sent a message from the start.

Cucurella was introduced to the tune of “Malbec,” a song by Argentines Bizarrap and Duki. Some may believe in coincidences, but this surely wasn’t one of them. Cucurella sent a message with his song choice to Argentina, who were defeated by Spain in a heated final.

Lyrics to “Malbec”

The song choice was fitting in more ways than one. Not only because it added insult to injury for Argentina, but because the lyrics matched the current mood in Spain.

“Llegué a la ciudad y me reciben como si fuera un boss
Cada vez más pegao y ni yo sé cómo pasó
Hoy festejamos y mi equipo salió campeón
Adentro del party, afuera en la calle, se escucha mi voz”

English lyrics

“I arrived at the city and I’m greeted like a boss
Getting richer every day, and I don’t even know how
Today we celebrate and my team has been crowned champion
Inside the party, outside on the streets my voice is heard“

The similarities with how things are going for Spain are easy to spot, and the fact that Duki and Bizarrap are Argentine is the cherry on top of Cucurella’s plan. It all worked out perfectly for him and La Furia Roja, even if it appears to be the work of a macabre scriptwriter for Argentina.

Cucurella sings his song

In addition to the song choice during his introduction, Cucurella also shared a moment with the fans as he sang the song that had made the rounds during the 2024 UEFA Euro. The song goes like this:

“Cucu Cucurella, se come una paella
Cucu Cucurella, se bebe una Estrella
Haaland tiembla, que viene Cucurella
Haaland tiembla, que viene Cucurella”

In English, the chant goes: “Cucu Cucurella, eats a paella. Cucu Cucurella, drinks an Estrella (Spanish beer). Haaland shakes, Cucurella is coming. Haaland shakes, Cucurella is coming.” Although Cucurella has embraced the chant, he didn’t write it. As he sang it during the 2026 World Cup celebrations, there were no changes made to the lyrics to take a shot at Argentina or any player on that team.

According to ESPN’s Martin Arevalo, the pending matchup between the champions of Europe and the champions of the Americas would take place this coming November. The venue would be Lusail Stadium in Qatar, as the country purchased the rights to the event.

The Finalissima was previously unable to take place because UEFA and CONMEBOL failed to reach an agreement on a venue. Madrid and London were among the host cities proposed on the table, while the Qatar option had been impossible at the time due to ongoing conflict.

A desired rematch for Argentina

If the match is officially revived, Argentina would have an immediate opportunity for revenge against Spain—and right at Lusail Stadium, where the Albiceleste won their third World Cup star four years ago.

Additionally, the fixture could serve as a fitting “last dance” for Lionel Messi with Argentina. Messi, who received a message of support from his wife, has reportedly not yet made a definitive decision regarding his international retirement. According to Doble Amarilla, the Albiceleste captain—who also congratulated Spain—could remain linked to the national team and suit up for marquee matches like the Finalissima, the upcoming qualifiers, and even the 2028 Copa America.

Messi in the eye of the storm

At 39 years old, Messi capped off an outstanding World Cup performance, recording eight goals and four assists while establishing himself as one of the tournament’s standout figures once again. Although the loss to Spain created a widespread feeling that it might have been his final match with the national team, the final decision remains entirely in the hands of the player himself.

A key factor is Messi’s current contract with Inter Miami, which runs through June 2028. If he decides to keep playing, he would remain active heading into the next Copa America. For now, the captain plans to take time alongside his inner circle to evaluate his future, while the AFA will not impose any deadlines on his decision.

Messi’s journey with Argentina does not yet have a confirmed ending. While the final defeat against Spain may turn out to be his last appearance for the Albiceleste, it could also simply mark the conclusion of a World Cup. The final word, as always, will belong to Leo himself.

“Soirée of the Year VII: Paredes vs. Gavi,” the sign, which Fabian Ruiz first held before handing it to Yamal, read. Moreover, Yamal looked at the camera, pointed to his eye, and said: “We’ll see each other.”

Although it all happened in a festive mood, Spain‘s provocation was clear, as the postgame incident wasn’t forgotten. To the victor belong the spoils, and it’s clear Yamal, who won his first World Cup at 19, and Spain will be having the last laugh. Similar scenes were seen when Argentina won the 2022 World Cup, as Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez celebrated with a baby doll featuring Kylian Mbappe’s face. Argentina also mocked Colombia’s fan song after their win at the 2024 Copa America.

Now, they are on the losing side and are getting a taste of their own medicine. Still, Argentines are used to far worse provocations in their soccer culture and have also been mocked by Germany after the 2014 World Cup final loss. It’s all give and take. This time, Argentina couldn’t get it done and must take it on the chin.

Context behind Yamal’s sign

The “Soirée of the Year” (La Velada del Año) is an amateur boxing event held by Spanish streamer Ibai Llanos, in which social media celebrities from all over the world put on the gloves and box. The sixth annual edition will be held on July 25 in Sevilla, Spain.

Because the timing is too tight, the sign Yamal held during the 2026 World Cup parade was aimed at next year’s event, joking that Paredes and Gavi should battle it out in a boxing match in 2027. Even if they wanted to, though, it would be quite difficult for Paredes, who reportedly played through a rib injury at the 2026 World Cup, to participate.

For the time being, Paredes and Gavi have yet to break their silence and speak on the incident—if they ever do so—but it’s clear the rest of the players on Spain’s 2026 World Cup-winning roster are taking it lightly and joking about the matter.

Spain celebrate, Argentina grieve

The celebrations are only beginning, and as they continue, it’s possible Argentina will be on the receiving end of more shots from the Spanish side. Buckle up, it’s going to be a long celebration on Monday in sunny and warm Madrid, as a rainy, cold, and gray Buenos Aires will hear the repercussions.

Messi, with eight distinctions, is the player with the most Ballon d’Or awards in history, although he enters this year’s race from behind. He won the 2022 World Cup with Argentina, lifted two Copa America titles with his national team, and also won the Champions League with Barcelona.

Which trophy has eluded CR7? The World Cup. Ronaldo has won the Champions League with Real Madrid, lifted the European Championship with Portugal in 2016, and claimed five Ballon d’Or awards. However, the biggest prize at the international level remained out of reach, as he was unable to win it across his six World Cup appearances.

Other players in this elite group are Franz Beckenbauer and Gerd Müller from Germany, along with Zinedine Zidane of France. In addition, two Brazilian legends have achieved the same feat: Rivaldo and Ronaldinho.

Rodri’s trophy cabinet

Rodri has established himself as one of soccer’s ultimate winners, boasting an incredible track record at both club and international levels. On June 10, 2023, he scored the historic winning goal to secure the UEFA Champions League title for Manchester City.

Just over a year later, on July 14, 2024, he led Spain to European glory by winning the UEFA Euro and earning Player of the Tournament honors. His dominance was individually crowned on October 28, 2024, when he won the prestigious Ballon d’Or. Capping off this legendary run, he reached the absolute pinnacle of world soccer by becoming a FIFA World Cup champion with Spain, and also being awarded with the World Cup Golden Ball.

Ronaldo can no longer join them

This was Cristiano Ronaldo’s sixth World Cup, and his dream of winning the title came to an end after Portugal’s elimination at the hands of Spain. The forward made it clear that this was his final appearance at the tournament representing his country, meaning he will not be able to join the exclusive group of players who have won all four of these major honors.

“The pain is immense, and it will take time for this wound to heal. But I will also hold on to all the positive moments… The comebacks we achieved by giving everything we had, moments that will remain in our memories forever, and the support of an entire country that, together with the work and effort of this group, helped us return once again to the top of world football. Today, it is difficult to appreciate everything we accomplished, but this team reached two consecutive World Cup finals,” he wrote on his official Instagram account.

He also added: “Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and every message. Once again, we managed to come together as a country and stand united, sharing the immense pride of being Argentinians.” He then went on to congratulate his opponents. “I also want to congratulate Spain for winning the championship.”

The Argentine captain’s message quickly received thousands of likes, as well as comments from fans showing their support for what lies ahead. Will Messi be part of Argentina’s next cycle?

On the verge of securing his second World Cup title

Lionel Messi’s tears at the end of the match reflected his heartbreak after falling short of achieving his greatest dream. After a tournament in which the No. 10 was one of the team’s standout figures, Argentina were unable to finish their campaign by lifting back-to-back titles.

Despite breaking several records, the Argentine legend fell short of winning a second World Cup title. As a result, Messi was unable to close the gap on Pele in terms of World Cup trophies won, although he remains level with Diego Maradona.

One of the biggest questions now is whether Messi will retire from the Argentina national team. With plenty of time ahead to reflect on his future, it remains to be seen what decision the legendary forward will ultimately make regarding his career with the national side.

What competitions are next for Argentina?

Now it is time to rest, step away from the game, and recharge for what lies ahead. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the futures of Lionel Scaloni and several veteran leaders, Argentina can already begin looking ahead. What is next for the Albiceleste in the short term?

There has been growing speculation about a potential date for the Finalissima against Spain, a match that has been postponed for quite some time and could finally be played this November. In addition, before the end of 2026, there are two FIFA international windows during which Argentina are expected to play a series of friendly matches.

In Argentina, Messi’s pre-match tunnel speech raised eyebrows and fueled widespread speculation following the team’s sluggish performance. “Let’s just focus on playing. Let’s forget about everything else,” Messi told his teammates in the tunnel.

Even though a visibly emotional Messi broke down in tears while receiving his silver medal, supporters were less than thrilled with his words. Fans swarmed social media with suspicion, writing comments like, “The final was very strange, and that’s how it felt to me. The missed passes seemed deliberate, the defenders who were key players were ‘injured.'”

Adding fuel to the fire, a reported FIFA investigation into the brawl that erupted between Spain and Argentina at the final whistle has only intensified the ongoing debate over what really happened in the final game of the tournament.

Scaloni addresses the officiating

Addressing the factors that contributed to Argentina’s downfall, head coach Lionel Scaloni pointed to the initial yellow card handed to Enzo Fernandez. Scaloni argued that the referee should have shown restraint, noting that the booking ultimately led to Fernandez being sent off later in the match after receiving a second yellow against Spain.

Uncertainty now looms over the future of the national team after Scaloni left his post-match press conference in tears when asked about his status as manager.

Moving forward, eyes are on how Argentina will bounce back and sustain their winning culture. With the 2028 Copa America and the 2030 World Cup on the horizon, the squad faces a crucial transition as management decides which core players can continue and which ones father time will catch up to.

Argentina ultimately fell victim to one of the tournament’s most remarkable trends: no team that entered the World Cup as the No. 1 side in the FIFA World Ranking has ever gone on to lift the trophy. With Lionel Messi losing the final, La Albiceleste dropped to second place in the rankings.

France were another team that remained among the top nations in the standings throughout the tournament. However, after their defeat to England, Les Bleus finished the competition in third place.

FIFA Ranking Top 10 after the World Cup: Final standings

The 2026 World Cup has come to an end, and with it, the FIFA Ranking has been updated until official competition resumes. Spain sit at the top, Argentina remain in second place, Portugal drop two spots, and Mexico close out the Top 10 after climbing four positions.

Despite being eliminated by Norway, Brazil‘s national team, led by Carlo Ancelotti, managed to climb one spot in the FIFA Ranking, the same situation as Morocco. Meanwhile, just like Argentina and Portugal, which dropped positions, the Netherlands also suffered a slight decline compared to where they stood at the start of the tournament.

Spain outclassed Argentina

Spain were better than Argentina, a fact even acknowledged by Lionel Scaloni himself. La Roja defeated their opponents 1-0 thanks to a dramatic extra-time goal from Ferran Torres, securing another major trophy and adding a new chapter to their history.

What comes next after the World Cup?

Following the conclusion of the World Cup, the official FIFA international calendar will resume in late 2026 with two distinct windows for national teams. The competitive action gets back underway with an extended September/October fixture block running from September 21 to October 6, 2026, giving teams an intensive two-week period to restart their official campaigns.

Shortly after, a second window scheduled from November 9 to November 17, 2026, will be dedicated to friendly matches as well as qualifying fixtures, offering managers a crucial opportunity to fine-tune squad dynamics and test new talent before the end of the year.

“‘You’ve made a mistake,’ I said to them. They messed up, but it’s no big deal… They’re going to enjoy it. I’m not ugly enough for them to hide that tattoo somewhere, but… I find it funny, and I’m proud they’re keeping their word. Above all, if you say something, you have to follow through,“ De la Fuente joked, responding to Cucurella’s pre-match vow to get a tattoo of his manager’s face if Spain won the title.

Even amidst the emotion of the historic win, De la Fuente couldn’t resist lightheartedly calling out Cucurella, who served as a fixture in the Spanish lineup throughout the entire tournament.

The victory goes well beyond the record books, where Spain shattered multiple Guinness World Records. For La Roja, the title against Argentina serves as the ultimate validation of their youth development program, a long-term project spearheaded by De la Fuente, who has now completed a clean sweep of major international trophies.

Cucurella answers where and when he will get the tattoo done

With anticipation building over where Cucurella will place De la Fuente’s likeness, the full-back weighed in on the pledge and offered a timeline for when he plans to get inked.

“I don’t know yet. I need to figure out where to put it. People are definitely going to ask to see it, so it has to be somewhere visible. But for now, we have a long flight ahead, and I hope to brainstorm a few ideas and get it done soon,” Cucurella said.

Spain’s players react to historic World Cup victory over Argentina

Beyond the banter between De la Fuente and Cucurella, several Spanish stars reflected on the championship win. Dani Olmo addressed the controversial moment when Argentine players turned their backs during Spain’s trophy presentation.

Meanwhile, it was an emotional tournament for Rodri, who took home the Golden Ball as the World Cup MVP over Lionel Messi. Speaking to the media post-match, the midfielder expressed his hope that Spain’s triumphant run inspires the next generation of soccer players.