World Cup: Accused of relying on referees and a lucky draw to reach the final, Messi hits back: 'We did not win undeservedly'

Argentine star Lionel Messi has hit back at critics who claim his team's success in reaching the World Cup final is due to referee bias and a favorable draw. Argentina defeated England 2-1 in the semi-finals to set up a championship match against Spain, aiming for a second consecutive title.

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Regardless of whether others like it or not, for the past four years, we have been the strongest team. Reaching the final again proves this is not luck; we have never gained advantages for no reason.

Throughout the tournament, Argentina has faced persistent accusations of benefiting from questionable refereeing decisions, with some online commentators even suggesting the tournament bracket was predetermined. Opposing coaches have publicly voiced these concerns after matches against teams like Switzerland and Egypt.

Messi, however, dismissed these notions, stating, "Regardless of whether others like it or not, for the past four years, we have been the strongest team. Reaching the final again proves this is not luck; we have never gained advantages for no reason." He emphasized that their achievements are the result of genuine effort and skill.

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At that time, the outside talk was too harsh.

Teammate Enzo Fernández also addressed the criticism, revealing that his goal celebration, which involved cupping his hands to his ears and waving his fingers, was a direct response to the detractors. "At that time, the outside talk was too harsh," he admitted. Head coach Lionel Scaloni remained unfazed by the accusations, pointing to the advanced VAR technology that makes biased refereeing nearly impossible. "These voices will never disappear, but we know very well that we win with our strength," Scaloni stated.

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These voices will never disappear, but we know very well that we win with our strength.