Lionel Scaloni broke down in tears talking about the defeat in the final
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni was overcome with emotion after his side's heartbreaking 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, 2026, breaking down in tears during his post-match press conference before walking out.
Scaloni had guided Argentina to the brink of a second consecutive World Cup title, but Ferran Torres' extra-time winner ended the South Americans' dream of defending the trophy.
The defeat also marked an emotional night for Lionel Messi, whose third World Cup final at the age of 39 is widely expected to be his last on football's biggest stage.
Asked whether the final had been Messi's last World Cup appearance, Scaloni admitted he had not yet spoken to his captain before the emotion became too much. Fighting back tears, the coach apologised to reporters, saying the defeat had "hurt my soul," before leaving the news conference.
Watch moment Messi and Scaloni cried after losing 2026 World Cup final
Scaloni also cast doubt over his own future with the national team. His contract expires in December 2026, and while insisting he will honour the agreement, the 48-year-old suggested he needs time to reflect after leading one of Argentina's greatest generations.
"I'll fulfil my contract and then we'll see," Scaloni said, adding that he must discuss his future with the Argentine Football Association. He admitted it would be difficult to recreate a team capable of achieving what this squad has accomplished.
Despite the crushing loss, Scaloni praised his players for their commitment throughout the tournament and reserved special words for Messi, calling the veteran forward "the greatest footballer of all time" after an extraordinary campaign in which he scored eight goals and played every minute of the knockout rounds.
Following their World Cup final defeat to Spain, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni walked out of his post-match press conference after becoming too emotional to carry on. pic.twitter.com/c7NQjN2MG8
— BBC Sport (@BBCSport) July 20, 2026
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