Scaloni Weeps: "Today We Must Be Great in Defeat"

No shot on goal in 120 minutes - that's no way to achieve a title defense.

Argentina also failed to secure a second consecutive World Cup title, a feat no nation has managed since Brazil in 1962. For the second time in twelve years, following the 2014 final, a final ends in defeat for the "Albiceleste".

Tears welled up in Lionel Messi's eyes as he was celebrated by the fans one last time. At 39 years old, another finals appearance for him is likely no longer realistic.

After the match, however, only the coach, Lionel Scaloni, was available to answer questions.

"Today we show that we know how to lose properly"

"I am sad, but I know that we left everything out there. I have so much to say about our journey here. I want to thank these boys for giving us another World Cup final and for giving everything until the end," he said, keeping his head up.

And he had to congratulate the opponent: "Spain was better today - that's the truth. But I will remember what my players achieved, what it took to get here. And we must attach great importance to that, because it takes a lot."

They are great in victory, "but today we must be great in defeat. Today we show that we know how to lose properly. We lost the game, and we will cope with that," said Scaloni, though he could hardly have been referring to Leandro Paredes' behavior>>>.

Press Conference Abruptly Ended

Then there was the question about the future of his greatest superstar, which the coach also couldn't answer: "I haven't spoken with Leo," he said. However, it is "crystal clear that he plays as long as he wants to. I hope everyone is proud of him and what he has achieved. He is the best footballer in history. What he accomplished during this World Cup is incredible."

Despite holding his head high, he eventually had to cut short the post-match press conference. "It is very painful, I am very sorry," said the coach, weeping profusely, and hurried off the stage.

"I already cried my eyes out in the locker room, that's why I'm not crying now," said Scaloni. A little later, however, he still had to cry and received encouraging applause from Argentine journalists.

Regarding his own future, Scaloni initially remained tight-lipped. There had recently been reports that the 2022 World Cup-winning coach had agreed with the association to extend his expiring contract until 2030. He stated he would speak with the association president.