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By Vikram Iyer — 20 July 2026 — 3 min read

National sentiment after the final

Following Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final, the nation’s media lauded the team, acknowledging that the European side had performed better. The front page of Clarín, a prominent newspaper, featured an image of Lionel Messi with the headline: “They gave it their all: [there is] nothing to blame them for.” The editorial highlighted a unique connection between the public and the national team, transcending the final outcome and sporting specifics.

Similarly, La Nación ran with the headline: “Argentina gave their all, and they are the pride of the nation.” Página|12‘s front page declared “From here to eternity,” with its cover article noting that Scaloni’s Selección had been defeated by a Spanish team that controlled the final but only scored in the second half of extra time. The article suggested that after the initial disappointment, the enduring legacy of the team, led by Lionel Messi, would be etched into football history.

The sports newspaper Olé echoed this sentiment with “May they be eternal,” a phrase from the national anthem. Alejandro Wall, in a column for Tiempo Argentino titled “Spain proved too much for this great journey,” described Luis de la Fuente’s Spain side as a dominant force that controlled possession, chances, and the game’s tempo. He noted that Argentina primarily focused on holding out.

Argentine President Javier Milei, in an interview with Radio Mitre, recognised the historical significance of the team’s achievement, stating that they had reached three finals and won one in the last four World Cups. He added that the team deserved no blame for giving their utmost.

Scaloni’s future and team’s performance

After the match, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni appeared tearful at his press conference, raising questions about his future. He expressed that if the team gives their all, as they did, it serves as a significant example for the people and the country. He emphasised the need to recover and that it is difficult to find fault when everything has been given.

Scaloni, who is 48 years old, was appointed manager after Argentina’s exit from the 2018 World Cup. His tenure has included guiding Argentina to the title in the 2022 World Cup and the Copa America crown in 2021. He is the second Argentine manager to reach consecutive World Cup finals and the fifth of any nationality.

The coach stated that he would discuss his future with the federation president, indicating a need for personal reflection. He acknowledged the difficulty of replicating the team’s achievements and the emotional toll it takes. Scaloni expressed gratitude to the fans and his team, accepting Spain’s deserved victory.

Former Argentina international Marcelo Gallardo commented on ESPN that Scaloni spoke with dignity, pride, and emotional presence. Gallardo also noted that the semi-final against England had been an “emotional drain” on the team. He observed that Argentina had not previously encountered a team like Spain, which effectively controlled the ball and prevented recovery.

Scaloni played for two decades across various countries, including Argentina, Spain, Italy, and briefly England, making seven appearances for the senior national team. His notable moment with the Albiceleste was starting in their 2-1 victory over Mexico in the 2006 World Cup round of 16.

Looking ahead

If Scaloni continues, the team is likely to see considerable changes. Lionel Messi, at 39 years old, had an exceptional tournament with eight goals and four assists, but his participation in the 2030 World Cup is considered highly improbable. A number of Argentina players started both the 2022 and a recent World Cup final, suggesting a significant turnover beyond their most famous star.

The Argentine Football Association confirmed that some squad members would return to Argentina on Monday, but no specific celebrations were mentioned.

Source: theguardian.com