Lionel Messi responds to criticism over Argentina’s World Cup run, saying the team earned its place in the final after beating England

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has dismissed suggestions that FIFA officials have favoured his team during the 2026 World Cup, insisting that the defending champions earned their place in the final through performance and determination.

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Messi made the comments after Argentina defeated England 2-1 in Wednesday’s semi-final, with the 39-year-old forward playing a decisive role by providing two assists for Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez.

The victory came amid criticism from some quarters over Argentina’s refereeing decisions during the tournament.

Egypt and Switzerland had reportedly submitted complaints to FIFA regarding officiating during their knockout-stage defeats against the South American side.

However, Messi rejected claims that Argentina had received any special treatment, saying the team’s achievements were the result of hard work and unity.

“Let people keep enjoying it. What this group has achieved is incredible, another final,” Messi said after the match.

“We have come back to be world champions, we are the best in the world after these four years, whether people like it or not, and no matter what they say.”

The Argentina captain added that the team’s journey proved their success was not accidental.

“This proves that what we did wasn’t by chance and that nobody gave us anything. Reaching two World Cup finals is something few achieve, and this group did it,” he said.

The debate has followed Argentina throughout the tournament, but Messi maintained that the squad’s togetherness has been the foundation of its success.

“People out there had doubts, but when this group comes together and is united, it finds what it doesn’t have to give its all,” he added.

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Argentina will now face Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday as Messi aims to lead his country to another global triumph. England, meanwhile, will meet France in the third-place playoff on Saturday.