Argentina’s forward #10 Lionel Messi celebrates with teammate defender #25 Facundo Medina his team’s second goal scored by Argentina’s forward #22 Lautaro Martinez (out of frame) during the 2026 World Cup football tournament semi-final match between England and Argentina at the Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta on July 15, 2026. (Photo by Thomas COEX / AFP)
By Adegboyega Adeleye
Lionel Messi paid an emotional tribute to the late Diego Maradona after inspiring Argentina to a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England, saying the World Cup semi-final triumph was “a gift” for the football legend.
The 39-year-old captain, who created both of Argentina’s goals in Wednesday’s thrilling victory, reflected on Maradona’s enduring legacy after guiding the defending champions into a second consecutive FIFA World Cup final, where they will face Spain on Sunday.
“Diego was truly great. I never wanted to compare myself to him; as far as I’m concerned, he’s the greatest of them all,” Messi said after the match.
