Football icon Lionel Messi was left teary eyed after Spain beat Argentina in the FIFA World Cup final on Sunday. Ferran Torres’ goal in the 106th minute ensured that the Argentine legend failed to win an unprecedented second FIFA World Cup title. Messi and his side had come into the tournament as defending champions after winning the tournament in 2022.

Former Indian cricket legend Sourav Ganguly, in an exclusive chat with News 18, hailed the icon. The 54-year-old said, “His (Messi) legacy shouldn’t be judged based on one game. One must remember he is also a human being and performing at the same level in each game is not possible. There will be off days, and judging his career on one final or performance is not fair.”

Dada also said, “Messi has already won the World Cup, broken countless records, and established himself as one of the greatest footballers in history through his extraordinary talent. One defeat does not diminish his achievements or his greatness in any way.”

The Prince of Kolkata, as he is fondly called, praised Spain for their tactical awareness that helped them win the title. “Didn’t watch the entire tournament, but followed key games, including the Semis and Final. Spain didn’t allow Argentina to play their natural game from the start.

“The Spanish side was better prepared tactically, as well as their game plan was flawless and showed great hunger to win. That is why the final turned into such a one-sided contest. Spain were outstanding as a team and fully deserved to win the World Cup,” he added.

Lionel Messi’s World Cup 2026 numbers

Inter Miami forward began the campaign with a hat-trick against Algeria. This also made him the highest-ever goal scorer in the tournament, going past Miroslav Klose, who had 16 goals. The 39-year-old ended his World Cup career with 21 goals, one behind French star Kylian Mbappe, who is now the all-time leading goal scorer with 22.

The former Catalan legend also scored two goals against Australia and netted once against Cabo Verde. His goal against Egypt helped his side seal a spot in the semi-finals in what was one of the most controversial World Cup matches of all time.