Argentina has been at the center of comebacks and controversy during the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup. The team’s opening match saw Lionel Messi avoid a card for a challenge on Algeria’s Aissa Mandi, leading to significant uproar. Following Argentina’s comeback win over Egypt after being down 2-0 in the Round of 16, Egypt’s head coach, Hossam Hassan, criticized the officiating as ‘unfair.’ Mostafa Zico went further, claiming the tournament was ‘fixed.’ Similarly, Switzerland’s head coach, Murat Yakin, voiced his discontent after Argentina triumphed over Switzerland in the quarterfinal.
At 39, Messi dismissed criticisms aimed at Argentina after leading the team to another victory against England in the semifinals on Wednesday, July 15. He rejected claims of FIFA favoritism and emphasized the high level of Argentina’s play, stating, ‘We have been the best for the last four years,’ after their comeback against England. Messi remarked, ‘This team has shown that on the pitch, no one gives us anything for free.’ He expressed joy and pride in bringing happiness to fans, saying, ‘I’m happy, enjoying every moment, and proud and delighted to be able to bring everyone more joy.’
On Instagram, Messi shared, ‘WE’RE IN THE FINAL!!!!!’ accompanied by Argentina flag emojis and praise hands emojis. The post has amassed over 3 million likes within an hour.
England initially led with Anthony Gordon’s goal in the 55th minute. However, true to their World Cup form, Argentina surged back in the late stages. Enzo Fernandez equalized with a curling shot from outside the box in the 85th minute, and Lautaro Martinez secured the win with a stoppage-time header. Messi assisted both goals.
Throughout his record sixth World Cup, Messi has scored eight goals and made four assists. He shares eight goals with France’s Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot but overshadows Mbappe with four assists compared to three. Over the past month, Messi has become the all-time leading World Cup goalscorer with 21 goals and the all-time leader in World Cup assists with 12.
Messi is nearing his third World Cup final appearance, which marks Argentina’s seventh final. As Argentina aims to become the third nation to win consecutive World Cup titles, they will face Spain on Sunday, July 19 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Currently, only Italy and Brazil hold the distinction of back-to-back wins. Spain, having conceded only one goal throughout the tournament, promises to be a formidable opponent.
Meanwhile, France and England are set for a third-place clash in Miami on Saturday, July 18.