Spain's 2026 World Cup win has seen Villarreal winger Alex Baena secure a place in the history books that even the greatest players of all time cannot match. While the headlines at MetLife Stadium focused on the passing of the torch from Lionel Messi to Lamine Yamal, Baena quietly completed a feat never before seen in the men's game.
Gary Neville has delivered a scathing assessment of Argentina's World Cup final defeat to Spain, insisting Lionel Scaloni's side were fortunate to stay in the contest. The former Manchester United defender also questioned how heavily the reigning champions rely on Lionel Messi.
Thousands of passionate supporters gathered in Buenos Aires to welcome the Argentina squad home following their World Cup final defeat to Spain. Captain Lionel Messi was notably absent from the delegation after electing to fly directly to Miami before taking a short break in Rosario, leaving head coach Lionel Scaloni and 16 players to lead the parade.
Leandro Paredes has broken his silence after Argentina's World Cup final defeat, but avoided addressing his role in the chaotic post-match brawl. The midfielder now faces uncertainty with FIFA set to investigate the ugly scenes despite his red card being removed.
Emi Martinez has hinted he could bring his Argentina career to an end after the Albiceleste lost the World Cup final to Spain. The Aston Villa goalkeeper admitted his heartbreak in an emotional message, leaving his international future uncertain.
Rodrigo De Paul has defended Argentina following their World Cup final defeat to Spain, accusing critics of spreading "baseless conspiracy theories" throughout the tournament. The midfielder insists the backlash only strengthened the bond within Lionel Scaloni's squad despite their painful loss.
CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez has claimed on social media that the 2030 World Cup will expand to an unprecedented 64-team tournament. The bold declaration follows confirmation from Gianni Infantino that FIFA plans to evaluate further expansion after the groundbreaking 48-team 2026 edition in North America.
Lionel Messi and Argentina were left heartbroken after losing the World Cup final to Spain, but the Argentine captain quickly received an emotional show of support from his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo. Her heartfelt tribute praised his resilience, character and enduring legacy despite the painful defeat.
Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul have been granted a mandatory recovery hiatus following their intense World Cup run with Argentina. Inter Miami's star duo will reportedly sit out upcoming league encounters and the MLS All-Star Game, ensuring they receive crucial rest after starring on the global stage.
Topps is celebrating one of football's most memorable images by turning Lionel Messi's famous photo with baby Lamine Yamal into a unique trading card. The announcement comes just a day after the pair faced each other in the World Cup final.
Footage from the New Jersey New York Stadium has exposed intense dressing room tunnel speeches delivered by Lionel Messi and Emiliano Martinez during Argentina's World Cup final defeat. The reigning champions were outplayed by Spain as they suffered a 1-0 loss after extra time, with a red card for Enzo Fernandez compounding their misery.
Cristiano Ronaldo's Instagram account appeared to like an explosive social media post alleging FIFA corruption and claiming officials attempted to hand the 2026 World Cup to Lionel Messi. The viral interaction surfaced before Argentina's final loss to Spain, after a tournament filled with fierce officiating disputes.
Enzo Fernandez has addressed Argentina supporters after their World Cup final defeat to Spain, having been sent off late in the dramatic showdown. The Chelsea midfielder reflected on the team's journey while FIFA also opened an investigation into the chaotic scenes after full-time.
There is a sense that we are awaiting the inevitable after Argentina were downed by Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. The tears rolling down Lionel Messi's face after the full-time whistle in New Jersey suggested he may well be about to call time on his glittering international career, having powered his country through the tournament in North America at the age of 39.
And just like that, it's over. After five-and-a-half weeks of breathless action, the 2026 World Cup is beginning to appear in the rearview mirror, the biggest international tournament in football history leaving behind a lifetime of memories while champions Spain continue their own celebrations.
Inaki Williams has led the tributes to his brother Nico following Spain's historic victory in the World Cup final against Argentina. The Athletic Club forward took to social media to express his immense pride in his younger sibling's achievement on the world's biggest stage.
German football legend Lothar Matthaus has delivered a scathing assessment of Argentina's conduct following their World Cup final defeat to Spain. The former Ballon d'Or winner hit out at the Albiceleste for their lack of sportsmanship and tactical approach during the showpiece event.
Lionel Messi has broken his silence following Argentina's heartbreaking defeat to Spain in the World Cup final. The legendary captain took to social media to share a moving message with his supporters, admitting that the pain of the loss will take a long time to heal.
Argentina’s World Cup final heartbreak has been compounded by the threat of heavy sanctions following a disgraceful brawl at the final whistle. FIFA has opened an investigation into the scenes in New Jersey, with Leandro Paredes at the center of the controversy.
Spain playmaker Dani Olmo has hit out at the Argentina national team for their lack of sportsmanship following the World Cup final. The Barcelona star insisted that elite professionals have a responsibility to act as role models for the next generation after a controversial trophy ceremony.
Lionel Scaloni has cast serious doubt over his future as Argentina manager following a heartbreaking 1-0 defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. The 48-year-old was visibly overcome with emotion during his post-match media duties as he pondered whether he could lead a necessary squad revolution.
After nearly 40 epic days, the World Cup has drawn to a close. The final did not deliver on drama, but there is perhaps justice in the best team winning it all.