Argentina coach Marcelo Bielsa was dejected after his team drew 1-1 with Sweden on Wednesday and were eliminated from the World Cup.
"I feel a great sadness and disappointment," said the coach of the pre-tournament favourites.
"To be favourites is a presumption prior to playing. Afterwards you have to confirm that in practice and we didn't."
Bielsa said he thought his team had played better than in the 1-0 defeat by England in their last match on Friday.
"Today our build-up was very superior to that against England. Each chance we created we had plenty of players on the end of.
Speaking in short sentences, his face not revealing any sign of emotion, Bielsa gave no clues about whether he would remain as coach of Argentina.
"My contract finishes at the end of the month," he said. "For now I have nothing to say. If I have to talk about it at the time I will do so."
Sweden midfielder Anders Svensson put his side ahead with a free kick in the 59th minute and, despite intense pressure, Argentina could only manage an 88th-minute goal by substitute Hernan Crespo after Ariel Ortega's penalty was saved.
"There was no external conditions weighing on us today," Bielsa said. "We just did not get what we deserved."