Sport

Lionel Messi thanks Argentina fans: ‘Wound will take time to heal’

Argentina were beaten 1-0 in the final by Spain in what has been rumoured to be Lionel Messi’s final World Cup game.

Thousands wait to greet the team, who return without captain Messi and a few other players after the World Cup.

Tens of thousands of fans greet La Roja as they travel down Madrid’s historic avenues to Cibeles Square.

Argentina’s Paredes was seen shoving Spanish players, which led to an on-field melee, while Spain’s Yamal prayed calmly.

00:48

Spain’s World Cup-winning team received a royal reception from King Felipe VI in Madrid ahead of a victory parade.

REPORTER'S NOTEBOOK

A look back at the World Cup’s moments of glory and controversy, and their impact on fans, teams and the sport.

EDITOR'S ANALYSIS

Spain beat Argentina, but talking points remain. Should there be 48 or 64 teams? Hydration breaks? The ‘dark arts’?

Norway saw the biggest jump in their rankings, climbing 12 spots to 19th after reaching the World Cup quarterfinals.

Kevin Keegan, the iconic striker for Liverpool, Newcastle and England, was diagnosed with stage four cancer last year.

Rohit struck 138 off 110 balls in defeat by England in third ODI, which some speculated could be his last for India.