Messi Rejects Claims of Special Treatment, Insists Argentina's World Cup Run is Earned

Argentina's captain, Lionel Messi, has strongly refuted suggestions that his team's journey to the 2026 World Cup final was aided by favorable refereeing or special treatment from FIFA. Messi asserted that La Albiceleste's success is a direct outcome of their sustained hard work and consistency over the last four years.

Messi's comments come in response to ongoing criticism surrounding Argentina's performance throughout the tournament. The defending champions have faced accusations of benefiting from referee decisions and receiving preferential treatment from football's governing body. However, Messi emphasized the team's resilience and championship mentality.

Argentina secured their place in the final with a dramatic 2-1 semifinal victory over England on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, after trailing until the 85th minute. This comeback win sets up a final clash against Spain on Sunday, July 19, 2026. Messi highlighted that the team's ability to turn matches around is a testament to their developed winning spirit, not mere coincidence or unearned advantage.

"We have been the best for the last four years, like it or not, and no matter what people say. Once again, we are among the two best teams in the world. This proves that everything we have done is not a coincidence and nothing was given to us for free," Messi stated, according to ESPN. The dramatic victory in Buenos Aires was celebrated by thousands of fans, continuing a pattern of late comebacks seen in Argentina's previous matches, including wins against Cape Verde, Switzerland, and Egypt.

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We have been the best for the last four years, like it or not, and no matter what people say. Once again, we are among the two best teams in the world. This proves that everything we have done is not a coincidence and nothing was given to us for free.