WATCH: Spain players form guard of honour for Messi after World Cup win

Spain’s national football team created a poignant moment of sportsmanship after clinching the FIFA World Cup 2026, forming a guard of honour for Argentina’s Lionel Messi and his squad during the medal ceremony at MetLife Stadium. The scene unfolded shortly after Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Argentina in a tightly contested extra-time clash, ending Argentina’s quest for a second consecutive World Cup title. The game, which saw Spain emerge victorious with a goal from Ferran Torres just 37 seconds into the second period of extra time, was a culmination of a dominant performance. Under the guidance of coach Luis de la Fuente, Spain controlled the match from start to finish, recording a staggering 845-433 pass ratio and a 20-2 shot advantage. This marked the second-largest shot differential in a World Cup final since statistical tracking began in 1966. The European champions also maintained an impressive defensive record, conceding just one goal across all eight matches of the tournament and extending their unbeaten streak to a European record 38 games. After the final whistle, the emotional atmosphere on the pitch was palpable. Messi, who had struggled to find his rhythm against Spain’s disciplined defense, was visibly affected by the outcome. He managed only 15 touches in the first half and 54 overall, rarely receiving the ball in dangerous areas. His frustration was evident as he sank to the turf, staring into the distance, grappling with the weight of yet another near-miss in his storied career. As the medal ceremony commenced, Spain’s players lined up to pay tribute to Argentina’s team. They formed a guard of honour, applauding and offering gentle pats on the back and chest to Messi as he led his teammates toward the podium. Despite his efforts to maintain composure, Messi’s disappointment was clear. He attempted to smile but could not fully conceal his emotions as he passed through the line of respectful opponents. Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, expressed deep admiration for his captain following the match. “I hope that everyone feels proud of him, of what he's achieved because he's the best football player ever stepping foot on a pitch,” Scaloni said. Messi, who has appeared in a record 34 World Cup matches across six tournaments, has long been regarded as one of the sport’s greatest legends. Yet, this loss marks the end of his bid to become a two-time World Cup winner, a dream that eluded him despite his enduring influence on the game. For Spain, the victory was a triumph of tactical discipline and resilience. De la Fuente confirmed that keeping Messi at bay was a key strategy, and it proved effective. The win solidified Spain’s place among the elite of international football, adding to their growing legacy as a consistently competitive force. As the celebrations continued, Messi quietly departed the field, wearing his silver medal, his shoulders slightly slumped. The moment encapsulated both the heartbreak of a close call and the mutual respect that defines the highest level of competition.