Di Marijina poruka nakon poraza Argentine protiv Španjolske: "Najbolja selekcija u cijeloj povijesti naše zemlje"

Argentina’s national football team, led by captain Lionel Messi, suffered a 1-0 defeat to Spain in the final of the 2026 World Cup, marking the end of a historic campaign. Argentine forward Ángel Di María took to his Instagram account to share a heartfelt message of support and gratitude toward his teammates, calling them “the best team in the history of our country.” The post included a photo of the squad along with emotional words expressing pride in their efforts and acknowledging their place in football history. Di María wrote: “A country is proud of you. A country was united again thanks to the love and courage you gave this World Cup. You are history, you are legends, and nobody will ever take that away from you.” He added: “The best team in the history of our country. Five finals in a row, nobody will ever take that away from you. MANY THANKS FOR EVERYTHING. I LOVE YOU ALL SO MUCH.” Another image of the team accompanied the message, with Di María adding: “Simply many thanks.” The loss came after a dramatic match in which Spain’s goal, scored by substitute Mikel Oyarzabal in extra time, proved decisive. Despite the disappointment, the players and coaching staff expressed deep respect for one another and for the journey they had undertaken. Coach Lionel Scaloni, who guided the team through its most challenging moments, delivered a tearful press conference following the match, questioning his future with the team. “To continue, we need a lot of things,” he said. “We have to restart. A group that is very difficult to rebuild. It hurts me in my soul.” Scaloni admitted the emotional toll of the defeat, stating: “I feel sadness now, but mainly I have eternal gratitude for these boys because reaching here costs a lot. We are great in victory and must be great in defeat, and we remember what has been done. We gave everything.” He also confessed to having cried in the dressing room, saying: “I cried all I could there.” Despite the heartbreak, Scaloni praised his players, declaring: “I am very proud of everyone. I have no blame for anyone. This coach is satisfied with his players.” The team faced several challenges during the tournament, including injuries to key players and logistical hurdles. Scaloni acknowledged the physical and mental strain on the squad, noting: “We had injuries in crucial positions that we didn’t expect, and we had to make many changes due to various obstacles that presented themselves.” He highlighted the effort of players such as Nicolás Tagliafico, who fought until the end, and emphasized the importance of resilience throughout the competition. Scaloni also offered high praise for Messi, calling him “the best player who has ever stepped onto a football pitch, in my opinion.” He reiterated his belief in Messi’s ability to play until he chooses to stop, and expressed hope that the public would recognize both the player and the team’s achievements. “Leo has 39 years, and it’s an incredible thing,” Scaloni said. “He always wanted to play until he decided otherwise. I hope the people are proud of him and the team. Messi is the best.” The government, meanwhile, showed its support for the team by making the Casa Rosada, the presidential residence, available for the squad’s stay in Buenos Aires. This gesture underscored the national pride associated with the team’s performance, even in the face of defeat. As the dust settles on the World Cup, the legacy of Argentina’s team, its determination, unity, and passion, remains indelible. The players and coaches have left behind a story of perseverance and excellence, one that will be remembered for years to come.