Messi remembers Maradona after Argentina's win over England

Argentina captain Lionel Messi paid an emotional tribute to football icon Diego Maradona after guiding the Albiceleste to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final with a dramatic 2-1 victory over England, saying the late legend would be "smiling from above."

Although he did not score, Messi inspired Argentina's comeback with two crucial assists, earning praise as the driving force behind his side's place in a second consecutive World Cup final.

Speaking after the match, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner dedicated the victory to Maradona, whose legacy remains inseparable from Argentina's historic rivalry with England.

"I'm sure Diego is smiling from above. This is a special day for him too. We're proud to give him this joy. This victory is for him," Messi said.

The result revived memories of the 1986 World Cup, when Maradona famously led Argentina past England before lifting the trophy. Nearly four decades later, Argentina once again eliminated the Three Lions from the tournament's knockout stage to move within one win of another world title.

Messi also dismissed the criticism surrounding Argentina throughout the tournament, insisting his team had answered every question on the pitch.

"People always expect more from Argentina. We knew we'd face criticism if we failed, but we responded with our football. We answered everyone," he said.

Calling the victory "different from any other," Messi admitted defeating England carried extra emotional significance for both the squad and their supporters.

He also praised his teammates for their resilience after falling behind, saying the players never believed defeat was an option.

With victory over England, Argentina now stand one match away from retaining the World Cup, with a final showdown against Spain awaiting.