La Albiceleste pulled off a dramatic late turnaround to beat the Three Lions 2-1 in Atlanta on Wednesday (15.07.26) and the football icon says the win meant a lot to the supporters due to the political and footballing rivalry between the two nations.

Messi said: "Although it was just one match, we experienced some special moments.

"The fans wanted this victory more than any other, because of what it means to face England in a semi-final and reach another World Cup final."

Argentina's fightback booked a place in the final against Spain on Sunday (19.07.26) and means they are just a game away from defending their trophy, with Messi hailing the never-say-die attitude of the team.

The Inter Miami star said: "This team never stops trying. We went out there playing football and with real determination. We pinned them back in their own half and showed we could win it in normal time, without going to extra time.

"No Argentine wanted to lose this match. The way this entire World Cup has unfolded has been incredible, especially considering the significance of this semifinal against England. No one wanted to lose today, setting aside any other context, but that's how it is."

Lautaro Martinez headed in the winner for Argentina in injury time and savoured a "very difficult victory".

The Inter Milan forward said: "It's very difficult to speak right now, but I'm going to try not to cry because I already cried a lot in there. It's incredible what we've achieved. We've kept moving forward, and that's the greatest satisfaction we can have.

"We pulled off a very difficult victory. The first half was very tough. They pressed us very well. In the second half, they scored, sat back, and we were able to control the game more calmly, keeping possession.

"And when the floodgates opened, with our support and the encouragement of the fans, everything became easier. Well, we managed to get the second goal in stoppage time, and after that, it was pure happiness."