After Argentina advanced to the 2026 World Cup final, Messi was interviewed by Argentine journalist Sofi Martinez in the mixed zone.
Reporter: We are interviewing Argentina national team captain Lionel Messi. This is your third final, and it comes after such a special semi-final. I'd like to ask, what are the differences between these three finals that you have experienced or are about to experience?
Every final is unique. Since it's a World Cup final, each one has its own special aspects. It feels wonderful to experience all of this again. I think what this team has accomplished is simply incredible—reaching two consecutive World Cup finals. Personally, very few players have ever played in three World Cup finals. Considering the entire course of this World Cup, today's match, our opponents, and the way we won, it's all just amazing.
Reporter: Before, during, and after the match, did you have any particular feelings? How did you spend that time?
Indeed. Although we emphasized before the match that it was just a football game, we truly felt a different and special emotion when the national anthem played. Of course, we always knew that it was ultimately a football match, a match we absolutely did not want to lose. The Argentine people craved this joy; they didn't want to lose to England, and we felt that same way. Thank God, we did it; we kept our opponents out of the final and once again reached the pinnacle of the World Cup. For all Argentinians, this is an incredibly happy day.
Reporter: You've all learned that song already. I've heard you sing it in the locker room several times, "For the Falklands, for Diego (Maradona)"...
I'm fully enjoying all of this right now, just like the Argentinian people did throughout the World Cup. As I just said, perhaps many people lost faith in this team, but I never stopped trusting them because I know the strength of these young men. I know that as long as we are united, we can always unleash unexpected potential. Even in the face of doubts, injuries, or setbacks, as long as we fight side by side, this team will show the strongest competitive spirit.
Reporter: How will you tell this story to your grandchildren in the future?
I'm not sure yet. Right now, I'm enjoying this moment with my children, wife, and family. I just spoke with my father, mother, siblings, uncles, and sister-in-law who are here. They've always been there for me. Although my parents and some of my brothers aren't here with me, but watching from back in Argentina—even though one of my brothers is here with me—this distance makes everything feel special and gives me a different perspective. My whole family is immersed in happiness, and I feel incredibly gratified to be able to bring joy to all Argentinians once again.
I hope everyone continues to enjoy this moment. I believe we have achieved our initial goal today, which was to fight to the very last day and stand on the final stage. Now, please celebrate to your heart's content. I know that the Monument Square, the Obelisk Square, and every corner of Argentina are filled with cheering crowds. As for the final, let things take their course, and may God bless us.
Reporter: Thank you, Rio. Thank you again for bringing such profound joy to the people of Argentina.
Thank you, and thank you all. Goodbye.
