Lionel Messi paid tribute to the late Diego Maradona following Argentina’s World Cup semifinal victory over England.
The reigning champions came from behind to secure a 2-1 win in Atlanta on Wednesday, setting up a final clash with Spain on Sunday.
Throughout his illustrious career, Messi, 39, has often been compared to Argentine legend and 1986 World Cup champion Maradona. After the match, he stated, Diego was truly great. I never wanted to compare myself to him; as far as I’m concerned, he’s the greatest of them all.
We shared wonderful moments; in 2010, at the World Cup, he had a brilliant time — we discussed the opposition and the matches of that tournament.
Wherever he is today, he’ll be happy to see this, knowing how much the national team meant to him and the legacy he left behind. This victory is a gift for him.
Maradona, who died in 2020, scored his first goal against England during the 1986 World Cup quarterfinal using his hand, infamously dubbed the “hand of God.” He later scored another goal, a brilliant solo effort that won the FIFA poll for the ‘goal of the century.’
Argentina won that match 2-1 and went on to claim their second World Cup title.
Messi noted the unique significance of Wednesday’s game, especially given the longstanding rivalry between the two nations. Even though it was just a match, it felt special — we could feel it right from the national anthem. The fans wanted this victory more than any other, given the importance of facing England in the semifinal and reaching back-to-back finals.
I’m proud and happy to provide this special joy to the people of Argentina. No one wanted to lose this match. This World Cup has unfolded in such an incredible way, and this semifinal against England was particularly meaningful. Today’s loss was not an option for anyone.
Having played a pivotal role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph in Qatar, where they ended a 36-year title drought, Messi has been exceptional in this tournament as well. He became the all-time top scorer at World Cups with 21 goals and holds the record for the most assists at 13.
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I’ve been training hard for a year, fully committed to being in the best shape possible.
Messi stated. At this moment, I just want to enjoy the experience. I’m not focusing on the idea of this being my last World Cup or anything else. This team gives its all and owes nothing to anyone. We are relentless; we set out to win with our football and determination, reaching another World Cup final. We pressed them into their own half and demonstrated that we could secure the win in regular time. Our composure and character allowed us to come from behind. Honestly, we truly enjoyed it.
In the final, Messi will face off against familiar opponents.
Spain’s roster features eight players from Barcelona, Messi’s former club. He commended the Euro 2024 champions, who reached their second World Cup final after defeating France 2-0. They are a fantastic team with exceptional players who play beautiful football.
Messi acknowledged. It’s a team I’m well acquainted with; they have a distinct football philosophy they’ve maintained for years. Knowing the players — many of whom I have faced and follow — makes this final particularly special. It’s going to be an evenly matched contest.