Argentina captain Lionel Messi said his country's qualification for the World Cup final reflects the team's character and collective spirit, describing the victory over England as carrying special historical context.

England were on course to reach their second final in history after 1966 when they won their only title, after taking the lead through Anthony Gordon (55'), but Argentina did it as has become customary in their last three matches by turning the tables with two goals from Enzo Fernández (85') and substitute Lautaro Martínez (90+2') following two decisive assists from Messi.

Messi said about reaching the final: 'What this team is doing is incredible. It's new proof of our character, our determination, our collective spirit, the way we play together, our strength, and our patience in managing matches. It was truly amazing.'

He added: 'We have said this throughout the tournament, and here we are reaching the final again, for the second consecutive time. Of course, I am very happy. The story is not over yet.'

Regarding facing England, he added: 'We talked about this before the match. In the end, it was just a football match, but it was a very special encounter, especially because it was against England, with all the historical context it carries. Among all the semi-final matches we could have played, this was the one we desperately wanted to win.'

Messi's hint comes after his teammates raised a banner reading 'Las Malvinas son Argentinas' following their victory over England, referring to a sovereignty dispute over the islands that turned into an armed conflict in 1982.

Argentina has claimed sovereignty over the Falkland Islands (Malvinas), the small archipelago in the South Atlantic, since they were occupied by the British in 1833.

On the upcoming final against Spain, Messi said: 'They are a great team with distinguished players, and they play football at a very high level. I know them well, and I know their football philosophy that has been carefully built and developed over the years.'

He added: 'I have faced some of these players before when I was at Barcelona, and I still follow this team. It will be a very special match, an exceptional final.'