Lionel Messi has retired from international football after Argentina lost 1-0 to Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday, Italian media reported, with commentator Daniele Adani paying an emotional tribute to the 39-year-old during a broadcast on Raiuno. Messi, who played his third World Cup final, failed to register a single shot on target and was photographed in tears after the defeat.
The match, decided by Ferran Torres' extra-time winner at MetLife Stadium, was marred by disciplinary incidents. Argentina's Enzo Fernandez was sent off just before extra time for a late lunge on Pau Cubarsi, and teammate Leandro Paredes received a red card after the final whistle for lashing out at Eric Garcia.