Atlanta: Lionel Messi has firmly rejected allegations that FIFA has favoured Argentina during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that his team’s continued success is the result of consistent performances and not outside influence.
The Argentina captain broke his silence after guiding the defending champions to a second consecutive World Cup final with a dramatic semifinal victory over England. Messi played a decisive role by providing two assists as Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez scored late goals to overturn Anthony Gordon’s second half opener.
Argentina’s campaign has been surrounded by controversy, with some fans and critics questioning several refereeing and VAR decisions that they believe worked in the team’s favour. The debate intensified after incidents involving Argentina’s matches and other knockout fixtures, leading to widespread allegations of bias.
Responding to the criticism, Messi dismissed the claims and said Argentina’s achievements speak for themselves.
He said the team has been among the world’s best for the past four years and that reaching consecutive World Cup finals is proof of their quality. Messi stressed that no one handed Argentina success and that everything the squad has achieved has been earned through its performances on the pitch.
The eight time Ballon d’Or winner also suggested that critics were waiting for Argentina to lose so they could revive accusations against the team. He maintained that Argentina believed they were the better footballing side against England despite the enormous pressure that comes with a World Cup semifinal.
Messi also dedicated the memorable victory to Argentine football legend Diego Maradona, saying the occasion would have been especially meaningful for him. He expressed hope that Maradona was enjoying the triumph from above, describing the win as a special tribute to one of the country’s greatest sporting icons.
Argentina will now aim to retain the FIFA World Cup title as they prepare for another appearance in the tournament’s biggest match, with Messi looking to cap another remarkable campaign on the international stage.
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