World Cup: Messi Dismisses Claims of FIFA Favouritism Towards Argentina

Lionel Messi rejected claims of FIFA favouritism after Argentina defeated England, insisting the world champions earned their success through unity and hard work ahead of Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain.

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has rejected claims that FIFA has shown favouritism towards the reigning world champions during their run to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.

Messi spoke after inspiring Argentina to a dramatic 2-1 victory over England in Wednesday’s semi-final, where he provided assists for Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez to help his side secure a place in the final against Spain.

The 39-year-old’s comments came after persistent allegations that Argentina had benefited from favourable officiating throughout the tournament.

Before the semi-final, both Egypt and Switzerland had reportedly lodged complaints with FIFA over refereeing decisions following their defeats to Argentina in the knockout rounds.

Addressing the criticism during his post-match interview, Messi insisted Argentina’s achievements were earned through hard work and unity rather than outside assistance.

“Let people keep enjoying it,” Messi said.

“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.”

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said Argentina’s continued success proved that the team’s accomplishments were deserved.

“This proves that what we did wasn’t by chance and that nobody gave us anything,” he added.

“Reaching two World Cup finals is something few achieve, and this group did it.

“People out there had doubts, but when this group comes together and is united, it finds what it doesn’t have to give its all.”

Argentina are now one win away from becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to retain the FIFA World Cup title.

Messi will also be chasing another historic milestone when Argentina face European champions Spain in Sunday’s final at the MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Meanwhile, England will take on France in Saturday’s third-place playoff after falling short in their bid to reach a first World Cup final since 1966.