Messi and Argentina in the World Cup final: “We are 26 warriors ready to fight for our own”

Few could have imagined this a few weeks ago, after their first loss to Saudi Arabia. Yet Argentina is the first country to qualify for the World Cup final in Qatar. Moreover, not by half: Albicelesta bested Croatia on Tuesday night in the semi-finals with the magical Messi and the opportunistic Alvarez. “Even if we started with a loss, we were sure that this group would go ahead,” explains the number 10, again named man of the match. We asked people to trust us because we know what we are worth. This group is incredible, we did it, we did it, we are going to play another final… Argentina is in the World Cup final again! »

Once again, yes, after losing against Germany in 2014. Bad memories that have not yet haunted Scaloni’s wards. “We worked hard and deserved it,” said midfielder Rodrigo de Paul. We have faith because we came here as champions of South America. I never tire of repeating: in the locker room we knew we were capable of it. We suffered a blow at the start (a 2-1 defeat against Saudi Arabia – ed. note), but then every match was like a final, we had to win at all costs. This team showed what they are capable of. You have to thank the supporters, you identify with them. »

The mood as defined by defender Nicolas Otamendi: “We are 26 warriors ready to fight for our own. “A solid defense capable of being dangerous at any moment thanks to Messi’s ingenious shooting, Enzo Fernandez’s passing or his midfielder’s ever-present pressing, Argentina will not easily win the final. Let Morocco or France be warned. “Today there was fatigue, but we will look for strength in unexpected places,” continues Messi. This group is very smart. He knows how to read moments during every game. This is an intelligent group that knows how to suffer when it is necessary to suffer. »