Lionel Messi confirmed that Argentina's comeback against England in the 2026 World Cup semifinal was not a surprise to him, noting that the team spirit and the players' belief in their abilities were the key to reaching the final.

The Argentina captain provided two decisive assists to Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez in the final minutes, leading his team to overturn the deficit and win 2-1, continuing the series of comebacks that accompanied the defending champion's journey in the tournament.

Messi said: 'This group does not surprise me. I know, and we all know, what we are capable of. Maybe some doubted us, but when we are united, it always gives us an extra push.'

He added: 'The players inspire each other, discover in themselves abilities they did not know they had, and give their all.'

Messi, 39, continues to enjoy his sixth World Cup appearance, insisting that he is not currently thinking about retirement and that his focus is entirely on Sunday's final against Spain.

He said: 'It's a team I know well. They have a clear football philosophy, and they have been playing with it for many years. I know the players, I have played against them, and many of them play for Barcelona, the club I love.'

He added: 'It's a special match, a World Cup final, and I expect it to be an even contest.'

After the victory over England, the Argentine players celebrated in front of the fans behind a banner affirming the Argentine sovereignty over the Malvinas (Falkland) Islands, referencing the historical conflict between the two countries; this gave the match a dimension beyond football.

Messi concluded: 'We played the match with true determination. Our fans were longing for this victory more than any other, because of what it means to face England in the semifinal and to reach the World Cup final again.'