Not even Messi's magic could will Argentina to back-to-back World Cups - ESPN

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. — Most Argentina players collapsed onto the field as the final whistle echoed throughout New Jersey Stadium to signal Spain's 1-0 triumph in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. Fans of La Albiceleste behind the goal initially stood there in shock before eventually breaking out into unified chants to ease the tension.

Supporters waved shirts in the air and sang Lionel Messi's name while the large screens on every corner of the stadium broadcast the images of Argentina's captain in tears.

The team faced an uphill battle to win a second consecutive World Cup. Coach Lionel Scaloni's side entered the tournament with a target on its back as the reigning champion, and injuries plagued the roster.

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For 64 years, men's national teams have tried and failed to dethrone Brazil as the most recent country to become back-to-back World Cup champions. Brazil lifted the trophy in 1958 and 1962 to join Italy as the only two countries ever to do it.

Argentina lifted the World Cup trophy in 1986 and reached the final of Italia 90 against West Germany, but a 1-0 defeat ended the dream of consecutive triumphs. This year, Argentina reached the final once more, but again, it was a single goal that stood in their way.

«I experienced this firsthand after the 1978 [World Cup] at the 1982 [World Cup], we realized then that it is by no means an easy feat,» Argentine World Cup winner Mario Kempes told ESPN in June. «Teams are getting to know you better now, they know how you play.

»They have to change because Argentina