BUENOS AIRES — Lionel Messi insists Argentina are the premier force in international football as they prepare to face Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final, a remark that underlines the Albiceleste’s recent dominance and his own pivotal role.
“This wasn’t just another victory, it was one the Argentine people desperately wanted,” Messi told reporters after Wednesday’s dramatic 2-1 semi-final victory over England. Reflecting on a remarkable run of results, he added: “It’s crazy what this group has achieved: Five finals. We’re coming off winning the World Cup and we’ve been the best team over the last four years. Now today, we are one of the two best teams in the world, and at another final.”
Messi also revealed the personal sacrifices behind his peak performances. He said he spent last December in Argentina training intensively, morning and afternoon, to arrive at the tournament in optimal shape. “I knew I was going to give everything to arrive in the best possible shape,” he said.
A sustained era of success
Argentina’s recent haul of trophies speaks to more than individual brilliance. Since 2021 the national side has lifted the Copa América twice (2021 and 2024) and the FIFA World Cup in 2022, creating a clear narrative of sustained excellence. Messi’s presence has been central: at this World Cup he has contributed eight goals and four assists, guiding Argentina through tight knockout encounters to another showpiece.
Individual glory on the line
Beyond team ambitions, Messi is chasing another personal milestone. He currently shares the tournament’s top-scorer spot with France’s Kylian Mbappé. A goal in the final would secure the Golden Boot and further cement his legacy in what could be a final World Cup appearance.
Tactical balance and leadership
Argentina’s blend of tactical discipline and attacking invention has proven effective against varied opponents. Coach and players have leaned on a compact defensive shape that transitions quickly into incisive attacks — a system that maximizes Messi’s playmaking and finishing while allowing emerging talents to flourish. Messi’s leadership — both on the pitch and in preparation — appears to have galvanized a squad with strong cohesion and belief.
A final against Spain
Facing Spain presents a different test: a side renowned for possession control, patient buildup and technical precision. Sunday’s match will be a chess match between Argentina’s counter-attacking threat and Spain’s methodical control. For Messi, the stakes are both national and personal — another major trophy for Argentina and a potential final accolade in a glittering individual career.
If Argentina can translate Messi’s conviction into performance on the pitch, they will not only defend their reputation as world-class contenders but also add another chapter to a modern-era dynasty. For Messi, the coming days are the culmination of months of preparation and a chance to leave an even larger imprint on football history.
