Lionel Messi in tears as Argentina fall to Spain in World Cup final

EAST RUTHERFORD: Lionel Messi was left in tears after Argentina's hopes of retaining the FIFA World Cup ended with a 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in Sunday's final here at MetLife Stadium, casting fresh doubt over his international future.

Ferran Torres struck just 37 seconds into the second period of extra time to hand Spain their second World Cup title and deny Argentina the chance to become the first men's team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the trophy.

Messi was unable to inspire another dramatic comeback as Spain dominated the contest, finishing with a 20-2 advantage in shots and controlling possession throughout.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni paid an emotional tribute to his captain after the final whistle.

"I hope that everyone feels proud of him, of what he's achieved because he's the best football player ever stepping foot on a pitch," Scaloni said.

It remains unclear whether the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has played his final match for Argentina.

Scaloni admitted he had not yet discussed the matter with Messi, who left the stadium without speaking to reporters.

Spain forward Torres praised the Argentine legend while insisting his side remained focused on their own game.

"When you have Messi on the other side, well, you are nervous," Torres said.

"At the end of the day, we always depended on us. We always come up with our football, and we showed it again."

After the final whistle, several Spain players embraced and consoled Messi before he collected his runners-up medal.

Despite the heartbreaking defeat, Messi ended another remarkable World Cup campaign with eight goals and four assists, further strengthening his legacy as one of football's greatest players.