Messi Rejects FIFA Favouritism Claims After Argentina Reach World Cup Final
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has firmly dismissed allegations that FIFA or match officials have favoured the reigning world champions during their run to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The 39-year-old responded to the criticism after inspiring Argentina to a 2-1 comeback victory over England in Wednesday's semi-final, providing assists for Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez to book a place in Sunday's final against Spain.
Questions over Argentina's path to the final had intensified in recent days, with Egypt and Switzerland reportedly raising concerns with FIFA over refereeing decisions in their knockout-stage defeats to the South American giants.
Despite the growing debate, Messi insisted Argentina's achievements are the result of hard work, unity and quality—not preferential treatment.
"Let people keep enjoying it," Messi said after the match.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner stressed that Argentina's consistency over the past four years proves their success is no accident.
"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.
"This proves that what we did wasn't by chance and that nobody gave us anything. Reaching two World Cup finals is something few achieve, and this group did it."
Messi also praised the resilience and togetherness within the squad, insisting the team always finds a way to overcome obstacles.
"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 will now attempt to retain the World Cup title when they face Spain in Sunday's final, while England and France will contest the third-place playoff.
Opinion
Messi's response reflects the mentality that has defined Argentina's recent success. Whenever accusations of officiating bias emerge, they are difficult to prove without clear evidence. Ultimately, the strongest rebuttal comes on the pitch. Argentina have consistently delivered under pressure, defeating elite opponents to reach another World Cup final. However, with Spain also producing outstanding football throughout the tournament, the final offers Argentina the perfect opportunity to silence critics by winning the trophy against one of the competition's strongest sides.
