Lionel Messi and the Argentina national team fell short of winning back-to-back FIFA World Cups after losing 1-0 to Spain on Sunday. Messi and his Argentine team were bottled up in the matchup, ending the game with only two shots on goal compared to Spain's 20. Spain has now won its second World Cup title (2010 and 2026).
The 39-year-old was magnificent for his home country during the tournament. The former FC Barcelona star started the group stage by scoring all three goals in a 3-0 victory over Algeria. The second group-stage match against Austria was more of the same, with the Inter Miami CF star scoring two goals in a 4-1 win.
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The six-time European Golden Shoe winner scored eight goals and provided four assists during the tournament, accounting for 63% of Argentina's 19 goals. Only 2026 FIFA World Cup Golden Boot winner France's Kylian Mbappe scored more, with 10.
With the 39-year-old getting up in age, Argentina fans are contemplating the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner's participation in the 2030 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by Morocco, Spain and Portugal. Reportedly, those close to the 5-foot-7 forward contend that participating in the next World Cup could be a challenge. According to All About Argentina, sources close to Messi admit that continuing with the national team won't be an easy endeavor.
"❗️Sources close to Leo Messi admit that continuing with the national team will not be easy," All About Argentina wrote on X. "Following the defeat in the World Cup final. @ESPNArgentina 🚨🇦🇷"
Uruguay, Paraguay and Argentina will each host matches as part of the centennial celebration of the 2030 FIFA World Cup.
