Messi Has a Message for World Cup Critics of Argentina: 'Nothing Was Handed to Us'

Messi has a message for World Cup critics of Argentina—“Nothing was handed to us”—after the reigning champions reached the final with a 2-1 semifinal comeback over England. Argentina trailed 1-0 entering the 85th minute on Wednesday, then rallied to secure victory and a spot in Sunday’s final against Spain. Messi said the team’s late-game reversals reflect “championship pedigree,” and argued that Argentina has been among the top two teams over the past four years. The win intensified debate about officiating and favoritism, following complaints from both Switzerland and Egypt earlier in the tournament. Switzerland’s coach Murat Yakin criticized a rule-related sending off after a controversial incident, and Egypt’s Hossam Hassan said the refereeing favored Messi and Argentina. Argentina’s camp did not acknowledge officiating concerns publicly.