The South Americans were beaten 1-0 by Spain after extra time in Sunday's (19.07.26) showpiece in New Jersey and the football icon stated that it "will take time to heal" after he lost the second World Cup final of his career (following La Albiceleste's defeat to Germany in 2014).

Messi - who captained Argentina to glory at the 2022 World Cup - wrote on social media: "The pain is immense, and this wound will take time to heal. But I also hold onto all the good things.

"The matches we turned around by giving it our all - moments that will remain in our memories forever - and the support of an entire country which, combined with this group's hard work and effort, brought us back among the world's elite once again.

"It is hard to fully appreciate our achievement right now, but this group reached two consecutive World Cup finals.

"Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and message. Once again, we managed to unite as a country and stand together, sharing the immense pride of being Argentine.

"I also want to congratulate Spain on winning the championship."

Messi, 39, was in tears at the end of the game - which could mark his final appearance at the World Cup - and Argentina Football Association president Claudio Tapia paid tribute to the Inter Miami star's efforts for the national team.

He wrote on social media: "A story that will live forever. There are no words in the dictionary that can adequately express our gratitude for everything you gave us, captain. For your football, for your unwavering leadership both on and off the pitch, and for teaching an entire nation to dream and to fight with their hearts on their sleeves right up to the very last second."