Lionel Messi praises Argentina’s mentality after reaching another World Cup final: ‘This team never stopped believing’

Lionel Messi delivered another masterclass at 2026 FIFA World Cupto sing In ArgentinaThe return of the high-stakes semi-final against England with two assists that punched the Albiceleste’s ticket to the final. After an emotional victory in Atlanta, the In Argentina icon was quick to praise his team’s determination to change the game, proudly saying, “This group never stopped believing.“

Talking to TyC Sports On the pitch, Messi spoke about the difficult history and negative feeling of the tournament: “Everything we experienced was amazing. From the beginning, even though it was just a football game, when we came out, national anthem and everything, we felt that it was not just another victory. This group is amazing. Today we searched for it again. We never stopped believing, we never stopped trying. When we were down on the scoreboard, we pinned them back in their box. Thus, it brings great happiness.“

The legendary player reiterated his unwavering faith in his teammates, admitting that their team strength goes beyond any individual talent. “It’s crazy how things play out. In fact, before World Cup started, I had faith in this group. I thought we would be in the last four, that we would fight for it. I know, and we knew, what we were capable of,” he added.

The grueling period of extra time needed to send Switzerland to the previous round took its toll on the players, but Argentina showed determination to overcome that fatigue: “Maybe people were skeptical because of the way we went into it, the players were pushed to the end. But when this group is together and united, we feed off each other and find strength from outside to give even more.”

Lionel Messi #10 of Argentina celebrates with his teammates. (Budda Mendes/Getty Images)

Messi concluded with a heartfelt message to Argentina’s supporters back home and in the stands, as the nation prepares to compete in a third World Cup final in the last four tournaments. “Enjoy this moment as it is. Today we entered another World Cup final. We have enjoyed being world champions for four years, and now we are playing in a new final. We got what we all wanted. Now, it will be whatever God desires,” he said.

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Lionel Messi is set to do what no football legend has done in World Cup history with a third start in the final

Lionel Scaloni in Argentina’s stunning victory

Since Lionel Scaloni took over in 2018, Argentina have embarked on an unprecedented run. five consecutive tournament finals across Copa America (2021, 2024), Finalissima (2022), and World Cup (2022, 2026). However, despite all the silverware, this strong team continues to leave their manager in awe after delivering another legendary comeback.

Following the final whistle, Scloni reflected on the team’s intangible qualities and the grit needed to pull off the victory: “It’s a combination of many things, about the team, about the brotherhood. About fighting to the end. We are going out there to win the final; we will try to win it. These guys moved me. I have nothing more to say. I am very grateful to the players. Without them, it is impossible. And above all, to those who don’t play, to those who support from outside. Those coming off the bench were also important.”

In the build-up to the game, comparisons were made to the historic 1986 clash described as “The hand of God” and “Goal of the Century,” and while Wednesday’s drama revealed his own legacy, Scaloni ended up focusing on the immediate future.I can’t compare this game to that one (From ’86)I was very young. We thought the game against Egypt was epic, but I think this is over. Whoever the opponent was, it was a semi-final. I’m worried, because now we have to rest. As far as I know, we need to rest now and prepare for the game (against Spain).”

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