Messi hails Argentina’s character after dramatic victory over England

Argentina captain Lionel Messi praised his team’s resilience and unity after they came from behind to defeat England and reach a second consecutive World Cup final.

England appeared close to reaching their first final since winning the tournament in 1966 after Anthony Gordon opened the scoring in the 55th minute. Argentina, however, produced another late comeback, with Enzo Fernández equalising in the 85th minute before substitute Lautaro Martínez scored the winner in stoppage time. Messi provided the assist for both goals.

“What this team is achieving is incredible,” Messi said. “It is another demonstration of our character, determination and unity—how we play together, remain strong and patiently manage difficult moments.”

“We have spoken about these qualities throughout the tournament, and now we are in the final again for the second consecutive time. I am extremely happy, but the story is not over yet.”

Messi acknowledged that the semifinal carried additional significance because of the historical relationship between Argentina and England.

“We discussed it before the match. Ultimately, it was a football game, but it was an especially significant one because it was against England and because of the history surrounding it,” he said. “Of all the possible semifinal opponents, this was the match we desperately wanted to win.”

Following the victory, Argentina’s players displayed a banner reading, “The Malvinas [Falkland Islands] are Argentine,” referring to the long-running sovereignty dispute that led to war between Argentina and Britain in 1982.

Argentina has claimed sovereignty over the South Atlantic archipelago since Britain took control of the islands in 1833.

Argentina will now face Spain in the final. Messi described the European side as an outstanding team with exceptional players and a carefully developed footballing philosophy.

“I know them well, and I know their style of play, which has been built and refined over many years,” he said. “I faced some of these players during my time at Barcelona, and I still follow the national team. It will be a very special match and an extraordinary final.”