‘We didn't give them the chance’ - Messi claims Argentina's loss would have caused backlash

An inspired performance by Lionel Messi fuelled Argentina's late second-half rally as they overcame a one-goal deficit.

With a dramatic late comeback in Atlanta, the defending champions clinched a 2-1 victory over Thomas Tuchel's team, securing their spot in Sunday's final against Spain.

This heartbreaking semi-final defeat shattered the Three Lions' aspirations of reaching their first final since 1966.

Messi praised his team's character as they came from behind to secure a victory and a place in their second consecutive final.

Speaking after the match, Messi emphasised that the clash with England was no ordinary game, highlighting the raw emotion felt during the national anthem and the collective desire for victory shared by the players and the nation.

The Argentine talisman acknowledged that even with their recent triumphs, a defeat would have invited harsh criticism. 

"It was a special match against England; we couldn't lose," Messi told TyC Sports. "While this group doesn't owe anything to anyone, you know how Argentinians are—we always demand more. 

“I think if we had lost today, people would have come out and said something stupid, and we didn't give them the chance."

"We knew we were better than them on the pitch, but so much is at stake in a match of this magnitude," he continued. 

"History plays a part in these games, but it's still special because of everything it represents, and we had to win."