Lionel Messi

Heroics and heartache: looking back at the World Cup

Soccer Football - FIFA World Cup 2026 - Group A - Mexico v South Africa - Estadio Azteca, Mexico City, Mexico - June 11, 2026 General view during the opening ceremony before the match REUTERS/Kai Pfaffenbach

Lionel Messi lands in Argentinian hometown after World Cup defeat

Argentina captain Lionel Messi cuts a dejected figure after their World Cup final defeat.

‘The pain is immense’: Lionel Messi breaks his silence after Argentina’s World Cup loss to Spain

Argentina’s Lionel Messi is a picture of dejection after they lost to Spain in the World Cup final on July 19.

8 moments of 2026 World Cup

Ghana’s Nana Kwaku Bonsam in his witch doctor persona during a group match against Panama on June 17.

Sporting Life

On an unholy afternoon, a Spanish goal saves football

Mutual respect: At the end of a fractious World Cup final, young phenom Lamine Yamal and an old hero Lionel Messi acknowledge each other.

The Straits Times’ World Cup 2026 Team of the Tournament

Spain’s Rodri is presented with the Golden Ball award after his team beat Argentina 1-0 in the World Cup final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19.

‘The last of Messi’: Argentines mourn World Cup final loss to Spain and the end of an era

Argentina fans in Lionel Messi’s home town of Rosario react during the World Cup final against Spain on July 19.

From CHIJMES and Lau Pa Sat to Kallang, Singapore football fans pack venues for World Cup final

Spanish fans reacts to the match during the live screening of the FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain at CHIJMES on July 20.

2026 World Cup final: 7 milestones to note

With their victory on July 19, Spain became the first nation to hold the men’s and women’s World Cup football titles simultaneously.

Tearful Lionel Scaloni, uncertain of Argentina future, leaves World Cup with gratitude after final loss

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MDDI (P) 046/10/2025. Published by SPH Media Limited, Co. Regn. No.202120748H. Copyright © 2026 SPH Media Limited. All rights reserved.