Argentine press balances pride and looming void without Lionel Messi after World Cup final loss | OneFootball

Argentina’s newspapers balanced national pride with anxiety over life after Lionel Messi, the morning after a 0-1 defeat to Spain in New York after extra time.

As reported by L'Équipe, front pages spoke of eternal thanks, national pride and no recriminations, and even general newspapers devoted almost entire editions to the Albiceleste.

There was unanimous praise for Spain’s performance, with particular admiration for Manchester City midfielder Rodri. Coverage accepted that Argentina lacked fluency on the ball but overflowed with heart.

Attention also fixed on Messi, tearful with a silver medal and looking towards the stands, and on fears about what follows his era. Many believe he has probably played his final World Cup match, 20 years in the competition.

Hopes of a triumphant homecoming faded. President Javier Milei had said a public holiday would depend on the players’ wishes, yet several, including Messi, did not board Monday’s flight to Buenos Aires.

The moment was framed as the close of a cycle for Messi and possibly for coach Lionel Scaloni, who broke down in his post-match news conference. Even advertisers joined the tributes, with a leading beer brand replacing its usual imagery with a Hernan Casciari tale celebrating heart over arrogance.

Source: L'Équipe