Fans on social media have reacted after an incident involving Lionel Messi in the final between Argentina and Spain at the 2026 FIFA World Cup has emerged. The video showed the Argentine skipper protesting to the referee that Nicolas Tagliafico was fouled in the build-up to the incident that led to Enzo Fernández's red card.

Meanwhile, Tagliafico wasn't fouled, and there was no contact between him and another player on the pitch. The defender fell seconds after witnessing Enzo's ugly challenge on Pau Cubarsi, and Messi went on to protest that his teammate was fouled.

The Argentine captain was seen pointing to Tagliafico, who was on the ground, suggesting he wanted the incident reviewed. This came after he also protested that Marc Cucurella should be sent off for covering his mouth while communicating with him during the game.

Watch the video below (via @NoodleHairCR7 on X)

After the footage emerged, fans on X criticized Lionel Messi, with some questioning his character. One user posted:

Other users wrote:

During the encounter, Ferran Torres (106') scored the goal that ensured a 1-0 victory and won the trophy for the Spaniards.

Lionel Messi has revealed that he feels pain after losing the 2026 FIFA World Cup final to Spain. He added that it would take him time to get past the pain of the defeat.

The former Barcelona forward thanked everyone who supported Argentina during the tournament in a letter which he posted on Instagram. He wrote (via Fabrizio Romano on X):

The 39-year-old was one of the most efficient attackers and finished as one of the top scorers during the tournament. He also scored eight goals and registered four assists.

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is expected to decide his future with the national team in the coming months. However, he will go down as one of the best players who have played for Argentina.

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