*This content was translated by AI.
Lionel Messi (39), who is facing England for the first time in his career, expressed strong expectations.
Italy's "Gazetta" reported on the 14th (Korean time) about Messi's determination ahead of his match against England and the local atmosphere recalling the 1986 Mexico World Cup.
Argentina will face England in the 2026 FIFA North American World Cup semi-final at Atlanta Stadium on the morning of the 16th.
Messi celebrated with fans immediately after Switzerland's victory in the tournament's round of 16, passing around his jersey while singing "Those who don't run are English."
Messi, who appeared in the joint interview zone (mixed zone), expressed his anticipation, saying, "I am happy to have advanced to the semifinals, and I look forward even more to facing England, a team we have never played before." He added, "I often watch the 1986 Mexico World Cup match against England, which Argentine fans always follow. No matter who our opponent is, we will play our own game," showing strong confidence.
The match mentioned by Messi is famous for Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" incident. At the time, Maradona scored a goal by handling the ball, but the goal was allowed. A few minutes later, he dribbled past multiple English players from near the halfway line and scored, shocking soccer fans around the world.
Messi also expressed great pride in the Argentine national team. He said, "Our team always firmly believes in itself, constantly creates history, and always wants more." He added, "It is miraculous to reach the World Cup champions, win Copa America, and then advance to the semifinals again," vowing that he would rest sufficiently and face the strong teams in the semi-finals in peak condition.
Argentina secured a dramatic victory over Switzerland after an extended battle in extra time. After finishing the regular match in a 1-1 draw, Argentina gained a numerical advantage following an opponent's red card and sealed their spot in the semifinals with a decisive goal by Julian Alvarez in the 7th minute of extra time and a final strike by Lautaro Martinez in the 16th minute.
Messi did not score, but he recorded his 10th assist in World Cup history, moving into first place all-time in this category. He said, "We struggled because we defended too deeply," while adding, "I am truly happy that Alvarez and Lautaro, who needed to score, found the net," praising his teammates.
Meanwhile, Messi strongly protested to referee Pinheiro during the match, saying, "I spoke with courtesy, so you should show respect as well." However, after the game ended, he met Italian football legend Roberto Baggio, received a gift of his own jersey, and regained his composure.
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*This content was translated by AI.
