Messi has a message for World Cup critics of Argentina: ‘Nothing was handed to us’
Messi said Argentina earned its place through hard work and two assists in a 2-1 comeback win over England.
- On Wednesday, Argentina defeated England 2-1 in Atlanta to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup final, with captain Lionel Messi providing two assists to secure the team's second consecutive tournament appearance.
- Throughout the tournament, critics and rival teams like Egypt have accused FIFA of showing favoritism toward Argentina following controversial VAR decisions in matches against Switzerland and Egypt.
- Messi dismissed the allegations, asserting that Argentina's success stems from hard work and championship pedigree, stating, "Nobody gave us anything."
- Midfielder Enzo Fernandez acknowledged that his goal celebration served as a direct challenge to the team's critics, reflecting the squad's defiant response to the controversy.
- Beyond the field, the British government urged FIFA to investigate Argentina on Thursday after players posed with a banner claiming the disputed Falkland Islands, marking the latest chapter in a long-standing feud.
45 Articles
45 Articles
'Nothing was handed to us': Messi hits back at Argentina critics
Lionel Messi asserts Argentina's World Cup victories were earned through skill and perseverance. He dismissed claims of beneficial officiating and favoritism by the soccer establishment. Argentina's team has demonstrated championship pedigree by overcoming late-game deficits. Critics have voiced concerns over perceived biased refereeing in several crucial matches. The team remains focused on their achievements and future performances.
Argentina returned to England and advanced to the final of the 2026 World Cup with goals from Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez. Lionel Messi defended the Albiceleste process.
Associated Press News
Messi has a message for World Cup critics of Argentina: 'Nothing was handed to us'
Lionel Messi has a message for Argentina’s detractors: “Nothing was handed to us.” The Argentina superstar responded to critics who have been bashing the reigning World Cup champions over perceptions of beneficial officiating and favoritism by the soccer establishment.
Messi hits back at claims of favouritism from FIFA
Lionel Messi has responded to claims that Argentina is shown favouritism by FIFA after their World Cup semi-final win over England. In an intense semi-final in Atlanta, England took the lead through Anthony Gordon in the 55th minute, but a second-half collapse from Thomas Tuchel’s side led to an Enzo Fernández equaliser before Lautaro Martínez sealed […]
Lionel Messi, captain of the Argentine national team that qualified for the 2026 World Cup final on Wednesday, stated that, “once again” the Albiceleste have shown “that nobody” gives them “anything for free.” Argentina, in another heroic comeback, defeated England 2-1, after England had taken the lead in the 55th minute, with goals from Enzo France and Nairo Quintana. Continue reading “Messi takes aim at critics after reaching another World Cup…
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