Scaloni concedes Spain's superiority after World Cup final defeat

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni admitted that Spain were the better team in Sunday's FIFA World Cup final, but said he was proud of the way his players gave everything on the pitch despite the 1-0 defeat and failing to retain the title.

Argentina faced tough opponents in every knockout round and appeared exhausted in the second half of extra time in the final, especially after being reduced to ten men. Spain finally broke the deadlock with a goal from Ferran Torres, securing both the match and the championship.

"I feel sad. There is a lot that could be said about how we got here, but it is not worth it. My gratitude to these players is limitless for bringing us to another final," Scaloni said.

He added, "They (Spain) were better, that's true, but I will cherish the memories of what my players achieved. We are gracious in victory and must be so in defeat as well. Tonight, we showed we know how to lose. We lost, and we accept that.

"As long as they gave everything, as they did, it sets a great example for our people and our country. You have to get back up. When you give your all like this, it is very hard to criticize anything."

Enzo Fernandez was sent off for Argentina in stoppage time at the end of the second half, making the task even more difficult for his team.

Argentina star Lionel Messi left the pitch in tears after playing in his third World Cup final, a feat previously achieved only by Brazil's Cafu.

Scaloni said he had not spoken with Messi about his future, but described his performance in the tournament—playing every minute of every knockout match and scoring eight goals—as "incredible."

Scaloni added, "He is 39 years old now. It was always clear to me that he would keep playing until he decides to stop.

"I hope everyone feels proud of him and what he has accomplished, because he is the greatest footballer ever to set foot on a pitch. I have no doubt about that, and what he showed at this World Cup was amazing, as was everything he did before."

Messi has won every club title before leading Argentina to the World Cup in 2022 and Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024.

Scaloni was moved to tears as he spoke about his own future.

The 48-year-old coach said, "I will speak to the president (of the football association). I think it's only fair that I take some time to think about it carefully. I never thought I would reach this point, and it is wonderful."

He added, "To move forward, you need a lot of things, like resetting your mind, starting over, and building a group like this again—which is extremely difficult."

Scaloni said, "I'm very sorry," as he became overwhelmed with emotion and left the press conference room.