Argentina captain Lionel Messi has dismissed claims that FIFA favoured his team on their journey to the 2026 World Cup final, insisting the reigning champions earned their place on merit.
Messi made the remarks after leading Argentina to a 2-1 comeback victory over England in Wednesday's semi-final, where he provided two assists for Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez to seal the win.
Argentina had come under scrutiny during the tournament, with some critics alleging the team benefited from favourable refereeing decisions. Egypt and Switzerland also reportedly lodged complaints with FIFA over officiating in their knockout defeats to the South Americans.
Responding to the allegations, Messi insisted Argentina's success was the result of the team's quality and determination.
"Let people keep enjoying it. What this group has achieved is incredible—another final. We have come back to be world champions, we are the best in the world after these four years, whether people like it or not, and no matter what they say.
"This proves that what we did wasn't by chance and that nobody gave us anything. Reaching two World Cup finals is something few achieve, and this group did it."
Looking ahead to the final, Messi praised Spain's quality and admitted Argentina would face a difficult challenge.
"They are a tremendous team, with outstanding players. They play excellent football.
"I know the Spanish side well, and they have a style of play they have developed over many years. Several of the squad play for Barcelona, a club that means a great deal to me and that I still keep up with. It will be a special World Cup final, and obviously, I expect it to be very closely matched."
Argentina and Spain will face off in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, with both nations aiming to lift football's biggest prize.
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