Lionel Messi dedicated Argentina’s dramatic World Cup semifinal victory to Diego Maradona after leading the defending champions into another final.
Argentina came from behind to beat England 2-1 in Atlanta and will now face Spain in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final.
After the match, Messi remembered the late Maradona and said the Argentina legend would be celebrating the team’s latest success.
“Surely Diego is enjoying this from above. It’s a gift for him too, and a very special day,” Messi said.
The Argentina captain described the win over England as one of the most emotional moments of the tournament.
“Playing against England is always special because of what a semifinal means,” Messi said.
“We knew that, and it was a match we wanted to win to bring joy to the fans and reach the final.”
Messi also praised England for their quality and admitted Argentina expected a difficult contest.
“We faced a tremendous team, with great players and a great style of play. It’s a team I know well. We knew it was going to be tough.”
Argentina trailed after Anthony Gordon’s goal before Messi inspired the comeback with assists for Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez.
He said the team’s belief never faded despite falling behind.
“We did what we’ve been doing for years. This team has a very fluid style of play. They’re patient and they know how to read the flow of the game.”
“When they scored, we stayed patient, moved the ball around, pinned them back and created clear opportunities.”
Messi said he never doubted the squad’s ability to reach another World Cup final.
“It’s crazy what we’re experiencing. From the moment the World Cup started, I had faith in this group and knew that we’d be among the four finalists. We’ve reached another final. It’s incredible.”
He also defended the team after questions were raised earlier in the tournament.
“There were people who maybe didn’t believe in this group, but I never stopped believing. I know what these guys are capable of. Even if they arrive exhausted or injured, they give everything.”
Argentina have now reached two straight World Cup finals, and Messi believes that achievement reflects the team’s consistency over the past four years.
“All finals are special. This group has achieved something incredible. Two World Cup finals in a row.”
The 39 year old also reflected on his long journey with the national team, saying the bond with his teammates has made the experience even more meaningful.
“Everything I experienced with this group since the 2019 Copa America is indescribable. Beyond all the achievements, living and competing together has brought so much joy.”
Messi revealed he spent the past year preparing himself physically for this tournament after feeling below his best during the last Copa America.
“I did everything I could to arrive in the best possible shape. I prepared a lot for a year because I wanted to enjoy this World Cup while feeling good.”
He ended by thanking Argentina’s supporters and promised to celebrate the latest victory with his family.
“Now I’m going to enjoy it with my wife and my children. We’re among the two best teams in the world once again. That proves what we achieved was not by chance. We earned it.”
