Lionel Messi described Argentina’s triumph over England in the World Cup semifinal as “special” after the veteran inspired a 2-1 comeback win that secured his nation’s place in the final.
England’s Anthony Gordon opened the scoring before the 39-year-old Messi set up Enzo Fernandez’s 85th-minute equalizer and then delivered the cross for Lautaro Martinez to head the decisive goal in Atlanta.
Messi said the semifinal win was “quite a special one, especially playing against England with all the historical context”.
The match in Atlanta took place amid ongoing tensions between the two countries over sovereignty of the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic.
Argentina invaded the islands in 1982, but Britain reclaimed control following a short conflict.
Messi also praised his Argentina teammates for their resilience and refusal to give up.
It was another display of the team’s determination at the 2026 tournament.
In the round of 16 against Egypt, Argentina rallied from two goals down to win 3-2.
“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,” Messi said. “It was really, truly amazing.”
The forward said he is eager to face Spain in the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on Sunday, a nation where he spent most of his club career with Barcelona.
He called Spain, who beat France 2-0 to reach the final, “a fantastic side, wonderful players”.
“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.”
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