Lionel Messi responded to critics accusing FIFA of favoring Argentina by emphasizing that their back-to-back World Cup final appearances demonstrate their world-class status and hard-earned success. Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez, with two assists from Messi, secured a late victory in Atlanta, edging Argentina closer to defending their world title. Despite controversies surrounding referee decisions seemingly in Argentina’s favor, Messi refuted any suggestions of bias in the tournament.
“It hurts whoever it hurts… We’ve been the best for the last four years, whether people like it or not, no matter what they say. Once again, we’re among the two best in the world, and that shows that everything we’ve done isn’t by chance and nobody gave us anything. Reaching two consecutive World Cup finals is something few achieve, and this group did it,” stated Messi, taking a direct swipe at his critics.
Messi also paid tribute to the late Diego Maradona, highlighting the significance of the win in honor of the legendary figure’s legacy and impact on Argentine football. “Without a doubt, Diego is enjoying this immensely from up there because today was a very special day for him; to be able to give him this joy and for him to experience it however he wants from up there. Let him enjoy it because it’s a gift for him too,” Messi concluded.
