- Messi Speaks On FIFA Favouritism As Argentina Reach World Cup Final
- Argentina defeated England 2-1 to book a World Cup final against Spain.
- Messi insisted Argentina’s success was earned through unity and hard work.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has dismissed claims that his team benefited from favourable refereeing decisions during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the reigning champions deserved their place in the final through determination, unity and consistent performances.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Messi spoke after leading Argentina to a 2-1 victory over England in Wednesday’s semi final, securing a place in Sunday’s FIFA World Cup final against Spain.
The 39 year old played a decisive role in the victory, providing assists for Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez as Argentina overcame the Three Lions to keep alive their hopes of successfully defending the World Cup title they won four years ago.
The victory came amid growing criticism over officiating decisions involving Argentina throughout the tournament.
Ahead of the semi final, Messi and several of his teammates had faced accusations that FIFA appointed referees had favoured Argentina during key matches.
The controversy gathered momentum after Egypt and Switzerland reportedly submitted complaints to FIFA following their knockout stage defeats to Argentina, alleging that questionable refereeing decisions influenced the outcomes of the matches.
Reacting to the allegations after the victory over England, Messi rejected the claims and insisted Argentina had earned every success on merit.
“Let people keep enjoying it,” Messi said.
“What this group has achieved is incredible. Another final, we have come back to be world champions, we are the best in the world after these four years, whether people like it or not, and no matter what they say.
“This proves that what we did wasn’t by chance and that nobody gave us anything. Reaching two World Cup finals is something few achieve, and this group did it.
“People out there had doubts, but when this group comes together and is united, it finds what it doesn’t have to give its all.”
Argentina will face Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final as they seek to retain the trophy and strengthen their legacy on the world stage.
England will meet France in Saturday’s third place playoff after missing out on a place in the final.
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