Messi breaks down after World Cup defeat, shares touching hug with Lamine Yamal

Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal had a heartwarming passing-the-baton moment when both of them hugged it out after Spain defeated Argentina to win the 2026 World Cup winners.

Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal shared a warm hug after the 2026 World Cup final. Image: AFP

FP Sports Desk|Jul 20, 2026, 09:08:59 IST

Lionel Messi's emotions were in overdrive following the 2026 World Cup final on Sunday in New York/New Jersey. Spain became two-time world champions after defeating Argentina 1-0 in a riveting clash in front of a capacity crowd at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, and the match had La Roja written all over it as they maintained their dominance over La Albiceleste.

Argentina and Spain battled to a stalemate through regulation time in the World Cup final, but Ferran Torres’ goal in extra‑time propelled La Roja to a 1‑0 triumph, securing the title as even Messi’s brilliance failed to ignite.

Messi gets emotional after World Cup defeat

After the final whistle, fans inside the stadium erupted in chants of Messi’s name, paying tribute to the iconic footballer for once again leading Argentina to the World Cup final.

Messi and Yamal share a heartwarming hug

In another heartwarming post-match moment, Messi and Lamine Yamal hugged it out following the World Cup final. The moment symbolised as a beautiful passing-the-torch moment between the two football stars of different generations.

The Messi‑Yamal link in the 2026 World Cup final carried a special significance, rooted in their unforgettable UNICEF photoshoot from 2007. Two footballers from different generations, each showcasing their unique brilliance, clashed in pursuit of World Cup glory.

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Messi etched key records as he delivered a remarkable performance that carried Argentina to the final. But Yamal enjoyed the glory as part of the world championship-winning team at the age of 19.

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