It was certainly not the finale that many Messi fans were hoping for, but destiny had other plans.
A very distraught Messi was pictured on the field bursting into tears as his World Cup career ended in extreme heartbreak.
In what was described as his final appearance in the game, the brutal loss shattered Argentina's hopes of defending the 2022 title. It also marked a painful milestone for the 39-year-old captain, who capped off an iconic international career with a runners-up medal.
Spanish star Ferran Torres was seen scoring the game-winner in the 106th minute. He capitalized on a cross from Nico Williams to blast a left-footed strike past Emiliano Martínez.
Midfielder Enzo Fernández was sent off in the 93rd minute after getting a second yellow card. This forced Argentina to play the entirety of the extra time with only 10 men. While Argentina's loss was painful, it was double the tragedy to see such an iconic player get so close to the World Cup again, yet so far.