Lionel Messi described Argentina’s comeback win over England in the World Cup semi-final as “special” after the defending champions secured a dramatic 2-1 victory to book their place in the final.
England looked set to reach their first World Cup final since 1966 after Anthony Gordon gave them the lead. But Argentina hit back late, with Messi playing a key role in both goals. The 39-year-old set up Enzo Fernandez for the equaliser in the 85th minute before delivering the cross that Lautaro Martinez headed home for the winner in Atlanta.
After the match, Messi admitted the victory meant a lot.
“It was quite a special win, especially playing against England with all the historical context,” he said.
The match was played against the backdrop of the long-standing dispute between Argentina and Britain over the Falkland Islands. Argentina invaded the islands in 1982 before Britain regained control after a short war.
Messi also praised his teammates for their fighting spirit, saying their determination has been one of the biggest reasons behind Argentina’s run to the final.
“What this group has been doing is incredible. Once again, we showed our character, our determination, and the way we play together as a team. It was truly amazing,” Messi said.
Argentina have shown that resilience throughout the tournament. In the round of 16, they came from 2-0 down to beat Egypt 3-2 and kept that never-give-up attitude alive against England.
Messi is now looking forward to Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Spain reached the final after beating France 2-0, and Messi expects another tough challenge against a team he knows well from his years at Barcelona.
“They are a fantastic team with wonderful players,” Messi said.
“They play really good football. I know them very well. Their style and philosophy have been built over many years, and I know many of their players too.”
