Rain mixes with tears as Argentina mourn Spain defeat | OneFootball

Argentina’s dream ended on a cold, drizzly winter night as Spain won the World Cup final in the United States, leaving a nation inconsolable. Hopes of back-to-back titles faded as small groups gathered at the Obelisk in Buenos Aires.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, many supporters stayed at home while any celebrations shifted to Spain. The local press accepted Spain’s superiority and felt only a miracle could have taken the cup, with Dibu Martínez standing out in a side often overrun.

Coach Lionel Scaloni said the defeat hurt, and his words carried a hint of farewell. Lionel Messi wept after receiving his runners-up medal as fans sang in public spaces and in living rooms. The familiar line that second places are not celebrated echoed through the night.

President Javier Milei thanked the players on X. Days earlier he had rebuked them over a Malvinas banner, and Messi, speaking softly, pointed to people who are struggling and defended both the gesture and last Wednesday’s joy. A planned national holiday and a handover of the Executive’s headquarters for a never-ending party were shelved, and there was uncertainty over an immediate return to Buenos Aires.

As the minutes passed, crowds fell quiet and talk turned to a cycle closing in the United States. Scaloni said he would honour his contract, then reflect on whether he could rebuild a group like this. For Messi, this effectively reads as a farewell to the national team, with a possible tribute match in Buenos Aires to come.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo