Lionel Messi's World Cup career ended in tears after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the final, with Ferran Torres scoring the decisive goal in extra time to hand Luis de la Fuente's side the trophy. The result denied Messi a fairytale send-off in what is expected to be his last World Cup appearance, and the match ended in ugly scenes as players from both sides clashed at the full-time whistle.

The final was also overshadowed by controversy, including a disallowed Nico Williams goal for Spain that prompted sarcastic chants aimed at FIFA president Gianni Infantino, and criticism from pundits such as Wayne Rooney and Ian Wright over the pitch condition and an elaborate half-time show featuring Madonna and Justin Bieber. Rooney also criticised Messi for appearing to try to get Spain's Marc Cucurella sent off during the game, while Argentina were left to reflect on an unwanted tournament record following the defeat.