Lionel Messi has addressed critics with a strong message: Argentina’s achievements were earned, not given. In response to accusations of favoritism during their World Cup run, Messi emphasized the team’s hard-won victories, including their comeback against England in the semifinals.
Trailing 1-0 until the 85th minute, Argentina staged a comeback, defeating England 2-1 to advance to the World Cup final. The win sparked massive celebrations in Buenos Aires, underscoring the team’s resilience, as they aim for consecutive titles against Spain on Sunday.
Argentina’s path to the final included victories over Cape Verde and Switzerland in extra time, and a dramatic 3-2 win over Egypt after overturning a 2-0 deficit late in the game. However, criticism ensued from opposing teams’ coaches, claiming biased officiating favored Argentina. Swiss coach Murat Yakin lamented the referee’s decision during their match, while Egypt’s Hossam Hassan accused the soccer establishment of partiality towards Messi and his team.
Fans and social media echoed these criticisms, suggesting FIFA’s bracket favored Argentina. Despite the noise, Messi stood firm, asserting, “We’ve been the best over these past four years.” After defeating England, Messi reinforced that Argentina’s consecutive finals appearance proves their success isn’t a fluke.
Controversy brewed after a crucial decision in Argentina’s match against Switzerland. A yellow card given to Leandro Paredes led to Swiss player Breel Embolo’s dismissal, criticized as unjust by Yakin. Egypt’s Football Association also voiced concerns over perceived biased officiating during their clash with Argentina.
Argentina’s coach Lionel Scaloni has largely dismissed these complaints. He advised journalists not to be swayed by social media noise and stressed that reaching two World Cup finals in succession is a rare feat, achieved without external help.
Post-semifinal celebrations included Argentine players holding a banner with the message “Las Malvinas son Argentinas,” reigniting tensions over the Falkland Islands. The British government urged FIFA to investigate the gesture.
Enzo Fernandez’s goal celebration during the semifinal, aimed at Argentina’s critics, symbolized defiance amidst ongoing criticism. Scaloni acknowledged that talk of favoritism would persist but insisted that modern technology like VAR makes external influence unlikely.
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