Top News

New Delhi: Lionel Messi’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended on a disappointing note as Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time in the final at MetLife Stadium. While Spain celebrated their second World Cup title, the closing stages of the match and the scenes after the final whistle shifted attention away from the football.

With Argentina already reduced to 10 men following Enzo Fernandez’s red card, Messi became involved in a controversial moment late in normal time. Television cameras showed the Argentina captain speaking to referee Slavko Vincic after Spain defender Marc Cucurella covered his mouth while talking during a stoppage.

Messi appeared to signal that Cucurella should be punished under FIFA’s regulations relating to players covering their mouths during confrontational exchanges. However, the referee took no action and play continued.

🚨 Marc Cucurella responds after Messi tried to get him sent off for covering his mouth

🎙️ Reporter: “Marc, what happened in that exchange with Lionel Messi?”
🗣️ Cucurella: “I was just telling him his teammates were being too aggressive. I didn’t even realize my hand was near my… pic.twitter.com/FJJn30h4FY

— B9 (@Boluwatiiffee) July 20, 2026

When Marc Cucurella was asked about the exchange in the press conference he revealed, “I was just telling him his teammates were being too aggressive. I didn’t even realise my hand was near my mouth – I moved it straight away.”

“He didn’t need to act like that. It was childish,” added Cucurella.

The incident quickly sparked debate with several fans and television pundits defending Cucurella. Many even argued that the Spain defender was not trying to hide abusive language but was instead indicating that teammate Pau Cubarsi had taken a blow to the mouth.

Former England captain Wayne Rooney criticised Messi’s actions, saying good sportsmanship was expected in a World Cup final. “Argentina play like that, we know that’s what they do. The one thing you want is good sportsmanship. That was sad to see, Lionel Messi doing that.”

Former Arsenal defender Lee Dixon also questioned the appeal while speaking on ITV, describing it as unnecessary. “You shouldn’t be such a baby to try and get someone sent off for that,” he said.

The tension continued after Spain secured victory through Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner. The celebrations quickly turned chaotic as players from both sides became involved in a heated confrontation near the technical area.

Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes was shown a straight red card after clashing with Spain’s Eric Garcia and Gavi during the melee. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni stepped in to calm the situation and pull his players away as officials worked to restore order.

The defeat brought Argentina’s reign as world champions to an end and what is widely expected to be Messi’s final World Cup appearance. Spain, meanwhile, completed a memorable tournament with another major trophy, while the closing scenes of the final are likely to remain under scrutiny.