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Lionel Messi explains why Argentina vs England will always be a special match
Lionel Messi said matches between Argentina and England always carry special meaning, even when the focus remains entirely on football.
Lionel Messi said matches between Argentina and England always carry special meaning, even when the focus remains entirely on football.
After Argentina's 2-1 victory over England in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinals, the captain admitted that beating the Three Lions made reaching another World Cup final even more memorable.
"It never stops being a special match"
Messi, who was named Player of the Match after providing both assists for Argentina's goals, reflected on the significance of the victory.
"It was incredible. Today was an amazing day. As we said before the match, it's a football game, but it never stops being special to play against England because of everything it represents, especially in a World Cup semifinal."
The Argentine captain said the team wanted to reward its supporters.
"We wanted to give our fans this joy and reach another World Cup final."
Messi praises Argentina's character
The victory sends Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup final after winning the title in Qatar 2022.
Messi believes the achievement reflects the personality of the squad.
"It's incredible what this group continues to do. Today was another example of our character, determination, unity, strength and football because we also went after the game with patience and quality."
Spain awaits in the final
Argentina will now face Spain in the World Cup Final, a team Messi knows well after spending most of his club career at Barcelona.
"They're a great national team with outstanding players and a clear style of football. It's a philosophy that has been in place for many years, and I know those players very well."
Messi expects a tightly contested final.
"It's going to be another special match, and it will be very even."
Messi reaches a third World Cup Final
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final will be the third of Messi's career.
He previously played in the 2014 final, losing to Germany after extra time, before lifting the trophy in Qatar 2022.
By reaching another final, Messi will equal Cafu as one of only two players to appear in three FIFA World Cup finals.
