Lionel Messi described Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semi-final as “special” after inspiring the defending champions to a remarkable comeback and a place in Sunday’s final against Spain.
The 39-year-old captain produced another decisive display, setting up Enzo Fernández’s 85th-minute equaliser before delivering the cross that Lautaro Martínez headed home in stoppage time after Anthony Gordon had given England the lead in Atlanta.
Reflecting on the victory, Messi admitted the result carried added significance because of the long-standing rivalry between the two nations.
“It was quite a special one, especially playing against England with all the historical context,” Messi said after the match.
The semi-final was played against the backdrop of the decades-long sovereignty dispute over the Falkland Islands, known in Argentina as Las Malvinas, adding extra emotion to one of international football’s fiercest rivalries.
Messi also praised the determination shown by his teammates, saying their fighting spirit had once again carried Argentina through a difficult contest.
“What the group has been doing is incredible, and this, of course, is again something that shows our character, our grit, our collective, the way that we play together,” he said.
“It was really, truly amazing.”
Argentina will now meet Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey after the Europeans defeated France 2-0 in the other semi-final.
Looking ahead to the showdown, Messi acknowledged the quality of Spain, a country where he spent most of his illustrious club career with Barcelona.
“They are a fantastic side, with wonderful players,” he said.
“They play very, very well. I know them quite well. Their whole idea and philosophy has been very well developed throughout this time, and I know the players as well.”
With another influential performance against England, Messi moved within one victory of leading Argentina to a second successive World Cup title and adding another remarkable chapter to his legendary international career.
