Lionel Messi slams England's tactics after Argentina's World Cup semifinal victory

Lionel Messi said England "didn't want it anymore" following Argentina's 2-1 win over the English team in the World Cup semifinal in Atlanta, directly criticizing coach Thomas Tuchel's defensive approach. Messi noted that England became overly passive after taking the lead and praised his own side's attacking pressure that produced the late goals by Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez.

Ahead of the tournament final, Messi reflected on a childhood photograph with 19‑year‑old Lamine Yamal, describing the image as "unbelievable" and remarking on the surreal circumstance of the two now meeting as opponents in a World Cup final. He praised Yamal as one of the world's best young players while affirming Argentina will strive to stop Spain's attack.