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‘I will bring this trophy home’ – Nico Paz pledges future triumph for Argentina after World Cup final heartbreak
Sameer Bhatia | July 20, 2026 10:09 PM CST

Nico Paz has shared an emotional message of determination with Argentina supporters following the Albiceleste’s painful defeat in New York. Though he did not feature on the field during the World Cup final, the young midfielder expressed immense pride in his teammates and vowed to bring the trophy back to Argentina in the future.

Spain capture the world title

Argentina’s courageous stand was finally undone after they were reduced to ten men following Enzo Fernandez’s red card in stoppage time. Ferran Torres netted the decisive goal in the 106th minute, handing Spain a narrow 1-0 victory in New York. The dramatic extra-time defeat cruelly ended the reigning champions’ hopes of retaining their world crown.

Paz’s heartfelt message of resolve

Although he spent the final on the bench, Paz demonstrated remarkable composure and leadership by posting a heartfelt message to lift his teammates’ spirits. The talented youngster praised the immense effort of his compatriots and also extended respectful congratulations to Spain for their achievement.

Paz wrote: “Today, more than ever, I am proud to represent this country, this national team, and to be part of an incredible group of people who give everything for these colours and leave their heart and soul on the pitch. I can only thank them.

“I promise to give everything within me to bring this cup back to Argentina.

“Congratulations to Spain and to all Spaniards.

“Argentina, always through the good and the bad.”

Chaotic final marred by interruptions

The New York final turned into a tense, physical battle, constantly disrupted by fouls and a strange 27-minute half-time pause for a celebrity concert. Spain’s camp grew increasingly frustrated with referee Slavko Vincic, arguing that he was too lenient on several tough Argentine tackles.

While the defeat was a bitter end to Argentina’s title defence, Spain’s victory marked a historic moment as they became the first nation to hold both the men’s and women’s world titles simultaneously.

Argentina’s future in young hands

The failure to defend their title is expected to hasten a generational shift in Lionel Scaloni’s squad ahead of the next major tournament cycle. Rising prospects such as Paz are poised to play larger roles as the coaching staff begins to phase out several ageing veterans. Their immediate task will be to recover mentally and physically, regroup, and strive once again to bring silverware back to Buenos Aires.


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