Argentina have once again written a comeback story on their way through the World Cup knockout stage. Not only did they win the match, but Lionel Messi’s side also reached the World Cup final for the second consecutive time, shattering England’s hopes in the process.
Argentina beat England 2-1 in the second semi-final in Atlanta, sending the three-time world champions back into the final for the first time since 2022. Messi took a pointed swipe at his critics while reacting to the win after the match.
In an interview with TYC Sports, the Argentine superstar said that whether people like it or not, La Albiceleste have earned their place in the final once again.
“To reach the World Cup final again after already winning one — no matter what people say, whether they like it or not, we’ve been the best team over the last four years. We’re still one of the two best teams in the world today.
“It proves that everything we’ve achieved is no coincidence, and that nothing was simply handed to us. Reaching two consecutive World Cup finals is something very few teams manage, and this team has done it.”
England had taken the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon and held on to it for the next thirty minutes, before Enzo Fernández equalized with a long-range strike in the 85th minute, assisted by Messi.
Then, in the second minute of stoppage time, Lautaro Martínez completed Argentina’s comeback by heading in a precise Messi cross. That goal marked the fourth consecutive knockout match in which Messi and Martínez combined to author a comeback — this time sealing their place in the final.
Following such a dramatic turnaround, Messi was full of praise for his teammates.
“It’s truly incredible. This team is amazing. We didn’t give up today. Even after falling behind, we stuck to our game and never lost faith. We kept the opponent pinned in their own half. It’s hard to put into words the joy of this win.”
Messi’s message to fans was equally heartfelt. He urged everyone to savor the moment, just as they had at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
“Enjoy this moment as much as we are. We’re in the World Cup final again — once more among the two best teams in the world. We spent four years as world champions, and now we’re fighting for the title again. We’ve reached the final stage, which is what we all wanted. The rest is in God’s hands.”
