Lionel Messi hailed England as a “tremendous team” after Argentina fought back to secure a 2-1 victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal, booking their place in Sunday’s final against Spain.

The result extended Argentina’s remarkable run on the biggest stage, while England’s dream of reaching their first World Cup final since 1966 came to an end. Speaking after the match, Messi praised England’s quality, reflected on Argentina’s journey through the tournament, paid tribute to Diego Maradona, and explained why he never stopped believing in his teammates.

Lionel Messi calls England a “tremendous team”

Messi acknowledged the challenge Argentina faced against England, describing the semifinal as one of the biggest tests of the tournament. He said England’s talented squad and established football philosophy made the contest especially demanding.

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“Playing against England is always special because of what a semifinal means. We knew that, and it was a match we wanted to win to bring joy to the fans and reach the final. We faced a tremendous team, with great players and a great style of play. It’s a team I know well, with a football philosophy they’ve been developing for many years. I’ve played against several of their players, I follow them, and some are at Barcelona. We knew it was going to be tough,” he said as quoted by La Nacion.

Leo Messi
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Leo Messi celebrates after Argentina’s win over England | X [433]

“None of us wanted to lose, and the Argentinians needed this joy. The Argentinians didn’t want to lose against England. We were able to do it, knock them out, and play in another World Cup final,” he added.

Messi reflects on Argentina’s remarkable World Cup journey

The Argentina captain described the team’s campaign as an unforgettable experience and said he had complete faith in the squad from the very beginning of the tournament.

“It’s crazy what we’re experiencing and how things are unfolding. Honestly, from the moment the World Cup started, I had faith in this group and knew that we’d be among the four finalists. We’ve reached another final, our fifth in a row. It’s incredible. This group doesn’t surprise me; I know them,” he said.

Messi also addressed the doubts surrounding the squad during the tournament, insisting that the players repeatedly proved what they were capable of through their commitment and unity.

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“Some people had doubts about how we were doing, because some players were pushing themselves to the limit, but this group, when it comes together and is united, always gives that extra something; they inspire each other and give their all,” he continued.

“There were people who maybe didn’t believe in this group, but I never stopped believing. I know what these guys are capable of. They find energy where there seems to be none. Even if they arrive exhausted or injured, they give everything,” he said as quoted by La Nacion.

Messi highlighted the significance of Argentina reaching another FIFA World Cup final, pointing to the consistency the national team has shown over recent years.

“All finals are special. Each one has its own unique qualities. It’s wonderful to be able to experience it again. I think what this group achieved is incredible, two World Cup finals in a row. Personally, few players have even played in three World Cup finals. The way the World Cup unfolded, today’s match, today’s opponent, winning it the way we did… it was unbelievable,” he said.

Messi pays tribute to Diego Maradona

Following the victory, Messi remembered Argentine football icon Diego Maradona and dedicated the special moment to the late World Cup-winning captain. “Surely Diego is enjoying this from above. It’s a gift for him too, and a very special day,” Messi said.

Messi on the historic rivalry With England

The Argentina captain admitted the semifinal carried extra significance because of the history between the two nations and the magnitude of the occasion.

“It’s difficult to analyse it now. It’s a historic match because of what it means to play against England. I was fortunate enough to experience a final in which we became world champions, and today I also felt that it was a very special match, because of the history behind it and because neither of us wanted to lose,” he said.

Messi opens up on Argentina’s journey and family celebration

Messi reflected on the bond he has built with the Argentina squad since the 2019 Copa America and said he spent the past year preparing physically to enjoy this World Cup to the fullest. “Everything I experienced with this group since I came back for the 2019 Copa America is indescribable. Beyond all the achievements we attained and having won everything, living with them, the day-to-day, and competing together was a wonderful process, one that brought so much joy to the fans,” he said.

“I did everything I could to arrive in the best possible shape. I prepared a lot for a year. I always said I wanted to enjoy myself while feeling good. At the Copa America, I wasn’t at my best physical level. This time, I prepared to the fullest to enjoy it,” he added.

Messi also revealed that he would celebrate the memorable victory with his family while sharing another joyful moment with Argentina supporters.

“Now I’m going to enjoy it with my wife and my children. I just spoke with my dad, my mom, my brothers, my uncles, my brother-in-law, and the whole family. So much happiness in the family and so happy to bring more joy to Argentinians,” he said.

“Keep enjoying it and living it. Once again, we’re among the two best in the world, and that proves that what we did wasn’t by chance and that nobody gave us anything. We were the best for the last four years, whether people like it or not, no matter what they say,” he added.

FAQs

What did Lionel Messi say about England after Argentina’s win?

Messi called England a “tremendous team” and praised their talented players, football philosophy, and the challenge they posed in the semifinal.

What did Messi say about Diego Maradona after the match?

Messi said Maradona would be enjoying Argentina’s victory from above and described the semifinal win as a special gift for the late legend.