'Silver Ball' and Second in Scoring: A 'Last Dance' That Ended in Tears

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Messi, who repeatedly created miraculous moments throughout this tournament, ultimately saw his journey come to an end, blocked by Spain's suffocating defense. Messi shed heavy tears as he concluded his sixth career World Cup.

Reporter Ha Seong-nyong has the story.

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Messi, who became the first player in history to start in three World Cup finals, kicked off the match to begin his 'Last Dance,' but he did not touch the ball even once during the first 15 minutes after his own kickoff.

Stifled by the opponent's focused defense, he was limited to just 15 touches in the first half and could not find a way through in the second half either.

Messi recorded his first shot only in the 12th minute of the second half of extra time, and despite launching a counterattack with consecutive corner kicks just before the final whistle, there was no turnaround.

Missing out on a second consecutive title and finishing as runner-up for the second time in his career, Messi had to swallow his disappointment as he took home the Silver Ball behind Spain's Rodri and finished second in the race for the Golden Boot.

Even after the awards ceremony, he teared up as if overwhelmed by emotion while looking at the fans who continued to cheer for him. Coach Scaloni, who shared the 'era of glory' with Messi, also could not hold back his hot tears.

[Scaloni/Argentina National Football Team Coach: It is extremely difficult to build a team like this again (without Messi). My heart is broken. I am sorry.]

It was not the finale he had dreamed of, but Messi's 'Last Dance' was magnificent.

He recorded 8 goals and 4 assists, setting records for the oldest hat-trick in history and the most consecutive matches with an attacking point at 7, while also writing new history in total assists and total attacking points.

The most matches played, most wins, and most Player of the Match awards also became part of the legacy Messi left behind.

[Maria Duran/Argentina Football Fan: Messi is a perfect player with both skill and character. He has always been the best, and he will forever be the best player.]

Messi, often called the 'Football Messiah,' has left an indelible impression on the hearts of his fans.

(Video Editing: Park Jeong-sam, Design: Kim Min-young)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.