Lionel Messi has been seen in public for the first time since Argentina’s heartbreaking loss to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. Less than a week after the defeat, the Argentina captain attended a lower-division football match near his hometown of Rosario, where fans caught their first glimpse of the veteran forward following the end of the World Cup.

Messi was present at the Antonio Di Giacomo Stadium in Arroyo Seco on Saturday to watch Leones FC, a club closely connected to his family, take on Central Córdoba de Rosario in a Primera C fixture.

Messi watched Leones FC with his family

The 39-year-old kept a low profile throughout the match. Wearing a black jacket with the hood over his head, Messi watched the game from a balcony alongside his sons Thiago, Mateo and Ciro.

Despite trying to remain unnoticed, supporters quickly realised he was at the stadium. Videos shared on social media showed fans calling out to the Argentine legend, who responded with a smile and a wave from the balcony. It marked Messi’s first public appearance since Argentina’s World Cup campaign came to an end.

World Cup final defeat still fresh

Messi had stayed away from the public eye after Argentina were beaten 1-0 by Spain in the FIFA World Cup final on July 19.

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The decisive moment came in extra time when Ferran Torres scored in the 106th minute at the New York New Jersey Stadium, helping Spain lift their second World Cup title. The result also denied Argentina the chance to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to defend the trophy successfully.

Following the final, Messi did not travel back to Argentina with the rest of the national squad. Instead, he returned to Rosario with his family on a private flight and remained out of the spotlight until his appearance at Saturday’s match.

Uncertainty over Messi’s international future

The World Cup final has also intensified questions about Messi’s future with the Argentina national team.

At 39, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner may have played his final World Cup match. However, he has not officially announced whether he intends to continue representing Argentina at the international level.

After the final defeat, Messi addressed supporters through social media, saying the disappointment of missing out on the title would take time to process while expressing pride in Argentina for reaching consecutive World Cup finals.

Leones FC match ends in defeat

Messi’s visit to the stadium was linked to Leones FC, a club with strong family ties. The team is run by his brother, Matías Messi, and currently competes in Argentina’s fourth division.

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The afternoon did not bring a positive result for the home side, as Central Córdoba de Rosario secured a 2-0 victory through goals from Marcos Córdoba and Franco Fernández.

After the final whistle, Messi came down from the viewing area with his children and acknowledged supporters waiting around the stadium. He walked across the pitch before leaving the venue in his vehicle.

The appearance ended nearly a week away from public view and marked Messi’s first outing since one of the most difficult moments of his international career.

FAQs

Where was Lionel Messi seen after the World Cup final?

Messi attended Leones FC’s Primera C match at the Antonio Di Giacomo Stadium near Rosario.

Has Lionel Messi announced his international retirement?

No. Messi has not officially confirmed whether he will continue playing for Argentina.