Lionel Messi dedicates victory in England as a special gift to the late Diego Maradona
Lionel Messi paid an emotional tribute to Diego Maradona after Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 comeback win over England in the World Cup semi-finals, saying the win was a “gift” for the late football legend.
Moments after leading Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup final, Messi was presented with Argentina’s iconic 1986 World Cup shirt by TyC Sports reporter, who told the captain it belonged in his personal museum after another memorable 2-1 win over England.
The symbolism could not be ignored. Forty years after Maradona inspired Argentina to one of the most famous victories in football history against England, Messi helped write another memorable chapter in the rivalry by setting up both goals in a thrilling comeback.
Speaking to TyC Sports, Messi said he was sure Maradona would appreciate the opportunity.
“I’m sure Diego is enjoying it from above because today was a very special day for him,” Messi said.
“He could give him this joy wherever he’s watching, and for him to enjoy it, it’s a gift for him as well.”
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SPECIAL DAY
Maradona’s performances against England at the 1986 World Cup remain etched in football history. The legendary number 10 recorded both the infamous ‘The hand of God’s purpose and the goal of the century in a 2-1 quarter-final victory before leading Argentina to the World Cup title in Mexico.
Wednesday’s semi-final produced another 2-1 triumph over England, with Messi once again at the heart of everything Argentina did.
Although On Thomas Tuchel’s side frustrating the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner with long spells and even taking the lead through Anthony Gordon in the second half, Messi refused to force the issue. Instead, he dropped deeper into midfield, dictating the pace and patiently waiting for the right moments to unlock England’s defence.
His vision proved decisive.
Messi first picked out Enzo Fernandez to spark Argentina’s comeback before producing another inch-perfect delivery for Lautaro Martinez, whose winner completed the turnaround to secure Argentina’s place in another World Cup final.
HISTORY LIVES ON
For Argentine football, victory over England has always meant more than the final score. Each meeting inevitably brings back memories of 1986, making Wednesday’s semi-final another emotionally charged chapter in one of football’s most enduring rivalries.
Messi’s post-match comments reflected those emotions. Instead of focusing on his two assists or Argentina’s latest comeback, the captain chose to remember Maradona, whose legacy continues to loom large over the national team’s every major success. An Argentinian fan displays a Diego Maradona and Lionel Messi banner before the match. (Image: Reuters)
Argentina will now face Spain in Sunday’s World Cup final with a chance to become the first country since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the trophy. Regardless of what happens in New Jersey, Messi ensured that one of the most memorable victories over England in recent history was also a moment to honor the memory of a man whose performances in the same game remain woven into Argentina’s footballing identity.
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Issued by:
Amar Panicker
Published on:
Jul 16, 2026 07:38 IST