Argentina Coach Admits Spain Were the Better Team After World Cup Loss

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni accepted that Spain played better after his team lost 1-0 in the 2026 World Cup final on Sunday.

Ferran Torres, who came on as a substitute, scored in the second half of extra-time. This goal helped Spain break down 10-man Argentina to win at the MetLife Stadium.

Argentina, the South American champions, had Lionel Messi in their squad. They aimed to be the first team to win back-to-back World Cups since 1962.

“They were the better side, that’s the truth, but I’ll cherish the memory of them (his side), of what they achieved, and of the value of making it this far,” Scaloni said.

“We have to place immense value on this because it takes so much effort.”

Scaloni noted that his team must accept the loss with the same grace they showed during their recent victories.

“We are gracious in victory, and we must be gracious in defeat. Today, we are showing that we know how to lose,” he said.

“We lost the match and we accept it, but that doesn’t mean we stop living or forget everything we did to get here.”

He also thanked the fans for their amazing support throughout the 2026 tournament.

“To the people, my players, and the country, I want to say that we gave it our all,” he said.

“We arrived here facing a realistic situation, but if the players leave everything on the pitch, as they did today, it sets a great example for our people and our country.

“We have to pick ourselves up again, there is no other way,” he added.

Scaloni, who is 48, said reaching a second straight final should be appreciated.

“I certainly value the runners-up spot because it takes so much to get here, and I think it deserves huge recognition,” he said.

“Naturally, we would have liked to win, but ultimately, I feel gratitude. That is the only word I have, along with sadness, of course.

“But when you give everything like that, regardless of whether you play well or poorly, it’s very hard to find fault.