Lionel Messi has dedicated Argentina’s dramatic victory over England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals to the late Diego Maradona, delivering an emotional tribute to the man he considers one of the greatest figures in the nation’s football history.
Following Argentina’s remarkable comeback to secure a place in the World Cup final, the captain said the victory was a fitting gift for Maradona, whose iconic performances led the Albiceleste to World Cup glory in 1986.
Speaking after the match, Messi reflected on his close relationship with the Argentine legend and the unforgettable memories they shared throughout his career. Despite often being compared to Maradona throughout his career, Messi made it clear that he never wanted to measure himself against the legendary No. 10.
I’m sure Diego is enjoying this so much from up above. It goes for him, this was always a very special day… I’m happy of being able to give him this joy and 𝐈 𝐡𝐨𝐩𝐞 𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐢𝐭 𝐡𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐮𝐩 𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 and enjoys it. We are lucky to have lived in Diego’s era. 𝐈 𝐧𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐰𝐚𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐩𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐦𝐲𝐬𝐞𝐥𝐟 𝐭𝐨 𝐡𝐢𝐦, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐝 𝐦𝐞. I choose to hold on to all the beautiful moments we shared together
Softfootball understands that Messi’s heartfelt comments resonated with supporters around the world, with many seeing the tribute as another reminder of the deep respect he has always shown for Maradona’s legacy.
The victory over England sends Argentina into another FIFA World Cup final, keeping alive their hopes of defending the title they won in Qatar four years earlier. For Messi, however, the occasion carried significance beyond football, as he ensured one of Argentina’s greatest triumphs was remembered in honour of the man who inspired generations before him.
