Lionel Messi: It was extremely difficult, but we took another step forward

Lionel Messi acknowledged the immense difficulty of Argentina's 3-1 World Cup quarterfinal victory against Switzerland, highlighting the intense pressure and limited space afforded by the opponent. He noted that the team struggled to execute their desired style of play throughout the match.

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To be honest, it was a difficult game. They pressed us and gave us no space. We couldn't play as we wanted and the game was very intense.

"To be honest, it was a difficult game. They pressed us and gave us no space. We couldn't play as we wanted and the game was very intense," Messi stated in the mixed zone at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas. He further explained that after scoring, the team retreated defensively more than necessary and faced challenges distributing the ball from their own half, resorting to long passes.

Despite the struggles, Messi emphasized the team's unwavering belief and resilience. "It was an extremely difficult game but the most important thing is that it ended well and that we took another step forward. We had to suffer again, but this team never stops believing. We are back among the top four in the world," he said.

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It was an extremely difficult game but the most important thing is that it ended well and that we took another step forward. We had to suffer again, but this team never stops believing. We are back among the top four in the world.

The upcoming semifinal pits Argentina against England. Messi acknowledged the historical significance and special nature of playing against a major rival like England, referencing past World Cup encounters. However, he stressed the immediate need for rest and preparation, recognizing the team's accumulated fatigue from previous matches. The focus remains on recovery and readiness for the next challenge.

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Always it is special to play against big teams. It has never happened to me with England and it will be special. It is a semifinal but now it is time to rest and prepare.