Argentina's head coach Lionel Scaloni has expressed his admiration for Lionel Messi, declaring that there is "no longer any doubt that Messi is the best of all time." This statement came during the post-match press conference following Argentina's semifinal victory over England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Scaloni highlighted the character and fighting spirit of his players as they prepared for the upcoming final against Spain.

The Importance of Team Unity

Scaloni emphasized the significance of team unity and the contributions of all players, including those who did not take to the field. He stated, “It’s great that they can enjoy being in a final and that they appreciate the players, because this group is difficult to explain with words.” He expressed gratitude towards his squad, noting how their resilience and brotherhood have been instrumental in their success. Scaloni also made a special mention of the substitutes, acknowledging their vital role in the team's performance.

Addressing Controversies

When discussing the match, Scaloni addressed the ongoing discussions about external assistance in football, stating, “This talk about help will always exist. It doesn’t bother me.” He pointed out that with the use of VAR, it is challenging for any unfair advantages to occur. Scaloni praised his team's ability to thrive under pressure, saying that they perform best when faced with difficulties and when opponents begin to falter.

Reflecting on Past Matches

Scaloni reflected on the emotional weight of the semifinal, comparing it to previous World Cup experiences. He remarked that he could not recall his feelings after the semifinal against Croatia and noted that the current match surpassed his expectations. He expressed concern for his players' well-being as they prepare for the final, acknowledging the fleeting nature of such joyous moments in football.

As Argentina gears up for the World Cup Final against Spain, Scaloni's words resonate with the team's spirit and determination, setting the stage for what promises to be an exhilarating conclusion to the tournament.