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Casablanca – Lionel Messi says Argentina have earned their place among football’s elite “whether people like it or not” after guiding the reigning world champions into a second consecutive FIFA World Cup final.
Speaking after Argentina’s 2-1 comeback victory over England in the semifinals, the 39-year-old captain dismissed suggestions that the Albiceleste’s continued success had come by chance. Instead, he described the team’s achievements over the past four years as the result of consistency rather than fortune.
“Nobody gave us anything,” Messi said. “We’re in another World Cup final, whether people like it or not. We’ve shown once again that everything we’ve achieved wasn’t a coincidence.”
The Inter Miami forward stressed that reaching consecutive World Cup finals is an achievement few national teams have managed, adding that Argentina have remained among the world’s strongest sides since lifting the trophy in Qatar in 2022.
Messi also reflected on the significance of defeating England, describing the semifinal as more than just another football match.
“It was a special game because of everything it represents,” he said. “We knew we were the better footballing side, but there was much more at stake. We couldn’t lose this match.”
The Argentine captain praised his teammates for responding after falling behind, saying the squad never stopped believing despite the pressure.
“This team never surprises me because I know what we’re capable of,” Messi said. “Even when we were trailing, we kept believing, kept playing our football, and pinned them back in their own half of the pitch.”
‘What God wants’
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner also revealed he spent an entire year preparing physically for the tournament after discussing his plans with Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni.
“I trained all year to arrive in the best possible condition,” Messi said. “I didn’t leave anything to chance.”
Despite the victory Messi reserved his biggest gratitude for God, saying he no longer asks for anything after everything he has already been given.
“I’m grateful for everything God has given me, both in football and in life,” he said. “In the end, whatever happens will be what God wants.”
Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final as Messi looks to win back-to-back World Cup titles and add another chapter to an already historic international career.
