Pau Cubarsí, jugador de España premiado en la final, sobre Messi: “Me da pena porque es mi ídolo y verlo perder no me gusta”

Spain’s under-23 team claimed victory over Argentina in a thrilling World Cup final, securing their place as champions of the 2026 tournament after a dramatic extra-time win. The match took place in New York, with Spain triumphing 1-0 to end Argentina's quest for glory. Among the standout moments was a heartfelt exchange between Spanish defender Pau Cubarsí and Argentina’s legendary captain, Lionel Messi, who had just suffered his second consecutive World Cup final defeat. Cubarsí, 19 years old and hailed as the best young player of the tournament, shared his emotions following the game. Despite celebrating Spain’s historic achievement, he expressed personal disappointment at seeing Messi lose. “It hurts because he’s my idol and I don’t like to see him lose,” Cubarsí said during a post-match press conference. He admitted that the moment Messi approached him to congratulate him was when he truly realized how special the experience had been. “I’d never met him face-to-face before. When he came up to shake hands, I knew it was real. It’s an honor to play alongside him.” The two players share a unique connection through FC Barcelona, where Cubarsí began his professional journey and where Messi made his name more than two decades ago. For Cubarsí, the opportunity to compete against one of the greatest players in history was both humbling and inspiring. “He’s a legend, and to be on the pitch with him is a privilege,” he said. The final itself was a tightly contested affair, with both teams displaying high-level skill and determination. Spain’s resilience proved decisive, with a goal in extra time sealing their triumph. The victory marked a milestone in Spanish football, as they lifted the trophy for the first time since 2012. The ceremony saw former Argentine champion trophy handed over to Spain, symbolizing the shift in fortunes between the two nations. In addition to the team accolades, individual awards were presented. Cubarsí received the prize for best young player, replacing Enzo Fernández, who had won it in the previous World Cup. Goalkeeper Unai Simón was named the best goalkeeper, while Rodri was honored as the most outstanding player of the tournament. During the award ceremony, fans once again chanted Messi’s name, echoing the support he has received throughout his career. Despite the loss, Messi remained a central figure in the event. At 39 years old, he continued to showcase his enduring influence on the global stage, even though this latest attempt to win the World Cup fell short. His presence in the stadium underscored his status as one of the sport’s most iconic figures. Cubarsí, still processing the magnitude of his success, described the moment of lifting the trophy as surreal. “I always dreamed of winning a World Cup, but I never imagined being here in New York holding the cup. I hear it and I can’t believe it,” he laughed. He also credited the unity within the Spanish squad as a key factor in their success. “We faced some of the best teams in the world, but we’re a family and that helped us win.”