Lionel Messi showed his true colors with a heartfelt gesture to his Argentina teammates after losing in the World Cup final. The three-time champions were aiming for a consecutive title, but it was not possible as Spain won by one point after extra time. Ferran Torres scored in the 166th minute, costing the defending champions and giving La Roja two stars.
Messi was visibly devastated after the final whistle as the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was unable to bring glory to his country once again. This is the second time they have been eliminated from a World Cup final, having been eliminated in 2014 and won in 2022. Although his disappointment was obvious, it was not directed at his teammates, who he later presented with gifts.
Argentina defender Marcos Senesi’s girlfriend has revealed that Messi handed out gift packs to all of his players, including Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez and Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandes.
This included a personalized backpack, a customized water bottle, and a complete set of Yerba mate, a popular drink in Argentina enjoyed by many players on the national team.
The gesture showed how highly Messi thought of his teammates, even if he didn’t win a second World Cup.
In addition to Argentina turning its back on trophy celebrations, the scenes of violence that erupted when Leandro Paredes attacked a number of Spanish players were sure to cause controversy across the football world.
Antonella responded on social media, sharing a strongly worded message from author and media personality Connie Ansaldi.
It read: “We are proud to be Argentinians. Argentina is truly like a family. We disagree and sometimes fight, but if someone from outside comes and insults us, we will tear out their liver.”
Antonelli also paid tribute to her husband in an emotional post on Instagram after the World Cup.
She wrote: “You are always the best, @leomessi. Not just because of your talent, but because you never stopped being yourself. Because no matter what happens, you never give up.
“You always fight to the end and give your all until the last moment. Your strength, your mindset and how you bounce back again and again is what makes you unique.
“Thank you for teaching us every day that true success is built through hard work, sacrifice, and perseverance, never losing sight of who you really are.
“You are the best role model for our children and an inspiration to millions of people. I admire you more than words can express and am so proud to walk through life by your side. I love you so much.”
