Martinez hits back at critics after Argentina’s World Cup final loss

Lisandro Martinez broke his silence this week following Argentina's 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final, posting a lengthy message on social media that both defended his teammates and took aim at critics who reveled in the loss.

"Remember that the fall of the great is the happiness of the mediocre," the Manchester United ↘ 2.62% defender declared in a pointed rebuke directed at those who had questioned the team's performance and conduct after Sunday's final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.Bein Sports+2

Martinez's Emotional Message

In his post on X, Martinez expressed disappointment at failing to retain the trophy Argentina won in Qatar in 2022 but insisted the result does not define the team's journey. "With a heavy heart for not having been able to bring home the cup that we all deserved, but with pride bursting at the seams for this jersey, for my teammates, the coaching staff, the executives, the medical team, the cooks, the kit men, and every single person who was involved," he wrote.Times of Oman

Martinez also congratulated Spain on their victory and urged Argentine supporters to remember what the team overcame during the tournament. "We faced adversities, we made the impossible possible, and we never looked for excuses, only reasons to keep going," he said.Times of Oman

Trophy Presentation Controversy

The post came amid widespread criticism of Argentina's conduct during Spain's trophy celebrations. After collecting their runners-up medals, Lionel Messi and his teammates walked to the far side of the pitch rather than remaining to watch Spain lift the World Cup, drawing accusations of poor sportsmanship. Argentina fans also chanted Messi's name while Spain's Rodri collected the Golden Ball award.NDTV Sports+1

Some reports suggested the players were facing their own supporters in the stands rather than deliberately disrespecting Spain. Regardless, the images fueled a broader debate about the team's temperament after a final in which Argentina failed to register a single shot on target during normal time, according to World Cup Tribune.AS USA+2

A Record Argentina Would Rather Forget

The defeat left Argentina with four World Cup final losses — in 1930, 1990, 2014, and now 2026 — matching Germany as the only nation to suffer that many. Argentina have now reached seven finals overall, winning three and losing four.Khel Now+1

With Messi, who turned 39 during the tournament, widely expected to retire from international football, the loss marks the likely end of an era for a side that conquered the world just four years ago.