Emotional Messi Speaks Out After Reaching the Final

Argentina is once again in the World Cup final after a dramatic 2-1 victory over England (to the match report >>>).

Two late goals in the 85th minute and in the second minute of stoppage time secured the final against Spain for the "Albiceleste" on Sunday in New York.

Messi: "Let them say what they want, even if our victory makes them sad."

After the match, a visibly emotional Lionel Messi spoke out: "It's incredible what we've achieved. Another World Cup final. That might make some people sad, they can say what they want. This team shows that no one gave us anything for free."

"We fight, we give everything, and we also play well – just look at how we played today and dominated England, even though we were trailing... I am proud and happy to make all Argentinians happy," Messi added.

Second consecutive World Cup final

Messi also addressed the extraordinary atmosphere of the semi-final. The clash was far more than just a football match:

"This went beyond football. You could feel it as soon as the national anthems played. To the fans, I direct the same words as back then in Qatar: Enjoy it. This team will never disappoint you. This team is something very special."

Match Highlights