Nicolas Tagliafico has delivered a candid assessment of Argentina’s shortcomings following their World Cup final defeat against Spain. The veteran defender admitted that the Albiceleste failed to replicate the form that saw them crowned world champions in 2022, suggesting that the team was tactically second-best throughout the contest.
The tournament might not kick-off for the best part of two years, but the extended international break offered some early clues as to how the challengers are shaping up
Croatian midfielders Mateo Kovacic and Kristijan Jakic shared their frustration after Spain snatched a late 2-1 victory in Split. The duo insisted Croatia showed crucial character following their heavy defeat to England.
Slaven Bilic has voiced his frustration following Croatia's narrow 2-1 Nations League defeat to Spain, hitting out at the antics of Marc Cucurella. Despite an improved performance from the Vatreni, the head coach felt his side were hard done by following a series of controversial refereeing calls in Rijeka.
Mikel Merino was the man of the hour for Spain once again, coming off the bench to secure a dramatic 2-1 victory over Croatia in Split. Despite his match-winning brace, the Arsenal midfielder has opened up about the personal challenges he faces while playing a secondary role for both club and country.
Lionel Messi has officially called time on his legendary international career, bidding a tearful goodbye to the Argentina national team at the Estadio Monumental. The Inter Miami superstar used his final moments on the pitch to address the stinging criticism and conspiracy theories that followed the Albiceleste’s World Cup 2026 final defeat to Spain.
Hungary U21.png?auto=webp&format=pjpg&width=3840&quality=60)
