TODAY’S PAPER | July 21, 2026 | EPAPER

Argentina fans chant 'Don't cry' to Lionel Messi after World Cup final defeat

Argentina fans show support for Lionel Messi after Spain's World Cup final win


Pop Culture & Art July 20, 2026 1 min read
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Argentina supporters showed their unwavering support for Lionel Messi following the team's 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with emotional messages directed at the captain after the final whistle.

Spain claimed its first World Cup title since 2010 thanks to Ferran Torres' extra-time winner in the 106th minute after a tense, scoreless battle that saw Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez make several crucial saves to keep his side in the contest.

As Spain celebrated the victory, videos circulating on social media captured Argentina fans chanting in support of Messi despite the heartbreaking loss. Among the messages heard from supporters was, "Don't cry," as they applauded the 39-year-old and thanked him for his contributions to Argentine football.

Messi, who led Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, was seen sitting on the pitch after the final whistle as Spain celebrated. The defeat ended Argentina's bid to successfully defend its world title.

The emotional scenes quickly spread online, with fans praising Argentina supporters for standing by their captain after the loss. Many described the chants as a fitting tribute to Messi's legacy, regardless of the result.

Although Argentina fell short in the final, Messi's tournament run added another chapter to an international career that already includes a FIFA World Cup, two Copa América titles, and numerous individual honors. Spain, meanwhile, secured its second World Cup crown with the victory.

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