Messi branded a ‘baby’ after desperate attempt to get Cucurella sent off

Messi’s World Cup final frustration sparked controversy after he appealed for action against Marc Cucurella’s mouth-covering exchange during Argentina’s defeat to Spain. While no punishment followed, pundits criticised the reaction as unsportsmanlike. Spain ultimately prevailed through Ferran Torres’ extra-time winner, ending Argentina’s title defence and leaving Messi’s final World Cup appearance marked by disappointment.