The record
Written from the 2 reports below. Nothing here is unsourced.
- Spain beat Argentina 1-0 in extra time in the 2026 World Cup final at the New York New Jersey Stadium on 20 July, with Argentina's Enzo Fernandez sent off at a crucial stage.
- Former India cricket captain Sourav Ganguly defended Lionel Messi, saying his legacy remains untouchable and that judging a whole career on one final is unfair, as no player performs at the same level every day.
- Ganguly praised Spain's superior tactical preparation, saying Spain never allowed Argentina to play their natural game.
- The comments come amid debate over Messi's influence in the final and questions about whether he will retire from international football.
What to watch next
- Whether Messi announces retirement from international football
- Any further reaction from Messi or Argentina over Enzo Fernandez's red card
- Ganguly's earlier stated preference for Maradona over Messi may draw ongoing debate
What changed2
Every report on this story, newest first. Times are when each outlet published.
Coverage1
2 reports
English national2
All filed from IndiaSingle origin
Named Argentina · Spain · United States · Enzo Fernandez · Leandro Paredes · Lionel Messi · Lisandro Martinez · Manchester United · New York New Jersey Stadium · BCCI · Diego Maradona · Ferran Torres · FIFA · Gautam Bhattacharya
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