After an impressive comeback with two goals in the closing minutes, defending champion Argentina advanced to the World Cup final for the second time in a row. Emotions ran high among the Albiceleste afterward.
“Even though people always say it’s just soccer, we knew this wasn’t just another win—it was one the Argentine people wanted, and one that took us to the World Cup final,” said Lionel Messi after the match, in which Argentina came back from a 0-1 deficit to beat England 2-1. “It’s crazy what we’re going through again and how things are turning out,” the superstar continued.
Lautaro Martinez, who came off the bench in stoppage time to score the decisive goal that secured a spot in the final, was even more emotional. “Ever since my father gave me my first pair of soccer cleats, I’ve always dreamed of scoring this goal,” said the Inter Milan forward, before apologizing for his emotional outburst.
Scaloni on his team: “There’s no arrogance”
Messi was a bit more composed, but he sang the praises of his team: “We’ve now made it to two World Cup finals in a row. But with this group, nothing surprises me anymore. We knew what we were capable of. Maybe some people had doubts because we didn’t start the tournament very well—with players at their limits and facing problems. But when this team comes together, there’s always an extra boost. We inspire each other and give it our all,” said the player, who recently turned 39.
Lionel Scaloni also reiterated the team’s unity. “It’s a joy for our country, for our people. I said the other day that this group never ceases to amaze me. It’s something very special. There’s no arrogance—that’s unique. We’ll try to win the final, too,” said the Argentine coach, who immediately acknowledged the fans—who were once again incredibly loud at the stadium in Atlanta: “These people have led us to all of this.”
Messi to the fans: “Enjoy this moment”
Messi also addressed his own fans: “It’s the same as four years ago: Enjoy this moment just as we’ve enjoyed it so far. We’ve made it to the World Cup final once again, putting Argentina back among the top two teams in the world. Today we took the final step toward that goal. Now everything will go as God wills.”
On Sunday, it will be decided whether Argentina will be crowned world champion again in 2026 or whether Spain, as the reigning European champion, will claim the next major title.