ATLANTA, United States, July 16 — Lionel Messi dedicated Argentina’s World Cup semifinal victory over England on Wednesday to the team’s fans.
Messi said the storied rivalry between Argentina and England had provided extra motivation for the reigning champion. “Although it was just one match, we experienced some special moments,” Messi said after the game. “The fans wanted this victory more than any other, because of what it means to face England in a semifinal and reach another World Cup final.” Anthony Gordon had given England the lead before Enzo Fernandez equalized in the 85th minute and Lautaro Martinez struck seven minutes later to send Argentina into Sunday’s final against Spain.
Messi, who provided both assists for Argentina’s goals, said team spirit had been key to the comeback. “This team never stops trying,” he said. “We went out there playing football and with real determination. We pinned them back in their own half and showed we could win it in normal time, without going to extra time. “No Argentine wanted to lose this match. The way this entire World Cup has unfolded has been incredible, especially considering the significance of this semifinal against England. No one wanted to lose today, setting aside any other context, but that’s how it is.”
Martinez, who scored 11 minutes after replacing Nicolas Tagliafico, struggled to contain his emotions after the game. “It’s very difficult to speak right now, but I’m going to try not to cry because I already cried a lot in there,” the 28-year-old said. “It’s incredible what we’ve achieved. We’ve kept moving forward, and that’s the greatest satisfaction we can have. “We pulled off a very difficult victory. The first half was very tough. They pressed us very well. In the second half, they scored, sat back, and we were able to control the game more calmly, keeping possession.” Martinez said Argentina’s fans, who outnumbered and drowned out their England counterparts, had provided a vital boost to the team. “With the encouragement of the fans, everything became easier,” he said. “We managed to get the second goal in stoppage time, and after that, it was pure happiness.”
The Inter Milan striker predicted Spain would provide an even sterner challenge. “They are a rival with great players, so now we need to rest and recover as much energy as possible to prepare for the final in the best way possible,” he said. “But we also want to enjoy it because reaching the final again is not an easy feat.”
Xinhua
