Argentina head coach, Lionel Scaloni, has acknowledged that Spain were the superior side in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, admitting his team was outplayed in the 1-0 extra-time defeat that ended their reign as world champions.
Ferran Torres’ decisive strike in extra time secured Spain’s second World Cup title at MetLife Stadium, while Argentina’s hopes of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the trophy came to an end.
Speaking after the final, Scaloni praised Spain’s performance and conceded that his side was second best on the night despite fighting until the end.
“They were the better team, and that’s the reality,” the Argentine coach said, while expressing pride in his players for reaching a second consecutive World Cup final.
The 48-year-old urged his squad to accept the painful defeat with dignity, insisting that the same humility shown in victory should also be displayed in defeat.
“We know how to celebrate success, and we must also know how to accept defeat. Losing this final does not erase everything this team achieved to reach this stage,” he said.
Scaloni also thanked Argentine supporters for standing behind the team throughout the tournament, stressing that his players left everything on the pitch despite falling short against a dominant Spanish side.
He described finishing as runners-up as an achievement worthy of recognition, noting the enormous effort required to reach back-to-back World Cup finals.
Although disappointed by the result, the Argentina coach said he was filled with gratitude for his players’ commitment and resilience, adding that the team must now recover from the setback and begin preparing for future challenges.
The defeat also marked what is widely expected to be Lionel Messi’s final World Cup appearance, bringing an emotional end to Argentina’s bid to retain the global crown.
