Lionel Messi reflects on Argentina’s World Cup journey ahead of final

By Blessing Adeyi — 19 July 2026 — 3 min read

Lionel Messi, captain of Argentina, shared a message with his teammates, coaching staff, and supporters on the eve of the World Cup final against Spain. The message, posted on his official Instagram account, reflected on his years with the national team and the bond developed within the squad leading up to the championship match.

Messi emphasized that the most rewarding aspect of his time with the team was not solely the titles, but the entire journey. He highlighted the daily interactions, the collective competition, overcoming difficult moments, and enjoying each step of the process. He also expressed gratitude to everyone involved in the team’s operations, acknowledging their role in maintaining the team’s standards on the international stage. Messi credited the squad’s unity as a key factor in their sustained success.

As Argentina prepared to face a Spain side that had conceded only one goal during the tournament, Messi looked beyond the immediate outcome of the final. He stated that regardless of the result, the team had already created an unforgettable story. His message concluded with the phrase, “Vamos, Argentina.”

Messi’s World Cup Presence

The World Cup final marks a significant moment for Lionel Messi, who is participating in his sixth World Cup. He is tied with France‘s Kylian Mbappé for the scoring lead with eight goals in the current tournament. Messi also holds an advantage in assists, which is the first tiebreaker in the Golden Boot race, having one more than Mbappé. He is also a strong contender for the Golden Ball award, which would be a record third time he has won the accolade for the tournament’s best player.

Messi has been central to Argentina‘s performances throughout the knockout stage, including a two-assist effort in the 2-1 semifinal victory over England. His coach, Lionel Scaloni, described Messi as the “best footballer the world has seen,” noting his ability to reach a final at 39 years of age as “unbelievable.” Scaloni encouraged enjoying Messi’s presence, comparing it to the legacy of Diego Maradona.

Despite the spotlight, Messi has often shown a preference to avoid extensive media attention. During a FIFA news conference for the teams at Javits Center, which was scheduled to feature coaches and captains, Messi did not attend. Instead, goalkeeper Emi Martínez took his place alongside Scaloni. Spain‘s coach Luis de la Fuente and midfielder Rodri were present for their team.

Anticipation for the Final

The final will see Argentina attempt to become the first team since Pelé‘s Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive World Cup trophies. Argentina has made three championship appearances in four World Cups, losing to Germany in 2014 but prevailing four years ago against France in a shootout after a 3-3 draw.

The match will also feature Spanish winger Lamine Yamal, who is drawing comparisons to Messi. Yamal, at 19 years old, will play against Messi, whom he met as a 3-month-old during a photoshoot with FC Barcelona players in 2007. Messi, who was 19 at the time of the photoshoot, acknowledged the “crazy picture” of them now facing each other in a World Cup final. He wished Yamal the best, recognizing his potential to make history.

Spain‘s coach De la Fuente, who won the 2024 European Championship with Yamal in the squad, advised Yamal to be himself, emphasizing Messi as a unique player and a role model. Martínez also noted that Spain is a strong collective, not just Yamal, and expressed hope for a historic final for fans. Messi will continue his Major League Soccer career with Inter Miami after the World Cup.

The final match is scheduled for Sunday at MetLife Stadium.

Source: foxsports.com