Lionel Messi, captain of the Argentina national football team, expressed his 'extremely intense pain' in his first statement after losing the World Cup final on Sunday to Spain 0-1 after extra time. Messi, 39, who shed tears after the defeat, wrote on his Instagram account: 'The pain is extremely intense, and it is difficult for this wound to heal. But I also keep all the positive aspects.' The Barcelona legend and Inter Miami captain added: 'Today it is hard to truly appreciate what we have achieved, but this team reached two consecutive World Cup finals.' Messi also congratulated Spain on winning the title. He spoke about the thrilling victories over England and Egypt, which he said will remain etched in their memory forever. He also spoke about the 'support of an entire country,' which allowed the 'Albiceleste' to 'be once again among the best teams in the world.' He added: 'Once again, we managed to unite as one nation, and to be all together, sharing the immense pride of being Argentine.' Messi did not address his future with the national team in his message, with which he participated in six World Cups. The native of Rosario scored eight goals during the tournament, but failed to make his mark in the final match, just like his national team, which failed to threaten the better-organized Spanish team. In the World Cup, Messi lost two finals (2014 and 2026) compared to his one title in 2022 against France. According to media reports, Messi is not among the players who will return to the Argentine capital Buenos Aires on Monday.