Coupe du monde 2026 : Lionel Messi répond aux accusations de favoritisme envers l’Argentine
Argentina have qualified for another World Cup final in 2026 after their spectacular 2-1 victory over England in the semi-final. This win allows the Albiceleste to defend their world title and also gave Lionel Messi the opportunity to respond to criticism leveled at his national team.
This match between Argentina and England, always steeped in history and emotion, once again lived up to all expectations. Trailing until the final minutes of the game, the reigning world champions turned the tide thanks to an exceptional finish.
In inspired form, Lionel Messi was the architect of this success, providing two assists. His influence on the game allowed Lionel Scaloni's men to secure their place in a third World Cup final in the last four editions.
After the match, the Argentinian captain addressed the media with a frank speech. He stated that his team had thoroughly deserved their qualification despite the numerous criticisms surrounding their performance.
“If we had lost against England, many would have found an opportunity to criticize us. We didn’t give them that opportunity. We were convinced that we were superior in terms of football. Even when we were behind, we continued to impose our game. This match had particular importance and we absolutely wanted to win it,” said the former Barcelona striker.
Messi also explained that this World Cup had been prepared with great care for many months, proof of the ambition shown by the Albiceleste to retain their title.
When asked about accusations that Argentina receives preferential treatment from FIFA or certain refereeing decisions, the 39-year-old striker dismissed these criticisms.
“It’s absurd to question everything we’ve achieved. We’ve reached five consecutive finals and two World Cup finals in a row. That simply shows the level of this team. We’ve been one of the best teams in the world in recent years. Nobody has given us anything. Everything we’ve achieved, we’ve earned on the pitch,” he stated.
A new rendezvous with history
Thanks to this qualification, Argentina will play Spain in the 2026 World Cup final on Sunday. A victory would see the Albiceleste retain their world title and achieve a historic feat by winning two consecutive World Cups, an accomplishment no team has achieved since Pelé's Brazil, who triumphed in 1958 and 1962.
Babacar SENE
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