JAKARTA - President of the Argentine Football Federation (AFA), Claudio Tapia, paid tribute to captain Lionel Messi for his extraordinary contribution to the Albiceleste.
The defending champions Argentina lost 0-1 in extra time to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final on Sunday, July 19, 2026, local time, in New Jersey.
Messi, who on Sunday became the first player to start in three World Cup finals, failed to show his best performance against Spain after previously shining with eight goals and four assists at the 2026 World Cup.
Tapia uploaded a photo of an emotional Messi standing on the MetLife Stadium pitch after receiving the runner-up medal.
"A story that will last forever. There are no words in the dictionary that can express our gratitude for all you have given us, captain."
"For your football, for your unwavering leadership both on and off the field, and for having taught an entire nation to dream and fight with all their hearts until the last second," Tapia wrote.
Messi did not stop to speak to reporters as he left MetLife Stadium after recording his 205th appearance for the Albiceleste and it is still unclear whether the match against Spain was his last game in an Argentine shirt.
The Inter Miami striker has led Argentina to World Cup glory in the 2022 final against France, flanked by two consecutive Copa America titles (2021 and 2024).
At the 2026 World Cup, Messi increased his international goals to 125 goals, only losing out to Cristiano Ronaldo who scored 146 goals.
"Thank you for every moment of happiness you have carved in our souls, for every tear of pride, and for raising our flag to the top of the world."
"You are eternal, Leo. You are a giant. You made us the happiest country in the world. This house - your house - will love you forever. Thank you so much. It's ours forever," Tapia continued.
Tapia also paid tribute to Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni. Scaloni, who has led the Albiceleste since 2018, said after the defeat against Spain that he would take time to think about his future, as his contract expires at the end of 2026.
Tapia shared a photo on Instagram where he is seen hugging Scaloni after the 2026 World Cup final.
"You are amazing. We are proud of your hard work, your dedication, and your love for this national team," Tapia wrote.
Tapia also gave an award to veteran goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Chosen as the best goalkeeper at the 2022 World Cup, Martinez made 11 saves against Spain, the most in a World Cup final.
"You are the best in the world and there are not enough words to thank you. Thank you for letting us touch the sky with our hands, for the lasting moments you created in Qatar, and for continuing to give your best in the United States."
"You are a giant, Dibu (Martinez)! On the pitch and in life, you are the best goalkeeper I have ever seen, a crazy, fun guy who gave us back our self-esteem and the right to dream big."
"Every time you fly, we all fly with you. We will love you for the rest of our lives--thank you for being you!" Tapia wrote on Instagram.
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