Argentine football legend Diego Maradona had dreamed of seeing the World Cup trophy in Lionel Messi’s hands. But he left the world before witnessing that scene. Messi later fulfilled Maradona’s dream at the Qatar World Cup, bringing Argentina the title again 36 years after Maradona’s 1986 World Cup triumph.
Four years after kissing the trophy at Qatar’s Lusail Stadium in 2022, Messi now has the chance to touch that dream again in New York. Beating England 2-1, Argentina have reached the World Cup final for a second successive time. In the semifinal, Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez wrote a story of a superb comeback after falling behind. Behind both goals was Messi’s contribution — both assists came from his feet. And this memorable win he dedicated to the late legend Diego Maradona.
After the match, a TYC Sports reporter handed Messi the historic Argentina jersey Maradona wore at the 1986 World Cup. In that emotional moment, Messi said the win was also a special gift for Maradona.
“I am sure Diego is enjoying this match from above,” Messi said. “Today is a very special day for him. Wherever he is, I’ve been able to give him this joy. This too is a gift for him.”
Argentina’s win over England has revived memories of the 1986 World Cup for many. That year, in the quarterfinal, Maradona beat England 2-1 with his two goals known as the ‘Hand of God’ and the ‘Goal of the Century’. Argentina then went on to taste World Cup glory under his leadership.
Four decades later, on the World Cup stage, the Albiceleste beat the same opponent by the same margin. And at the centre of that win was Lionel Messi. Though they fell behind early, he stayed calm and patient. Dropping into midfield to control the rhythm of the game, he also created two goal chances.
First, a perfect pass to Enzo Fernandez opened the way for the equaliser. Then a lofted cross towards Lautaro Martinez brought the winning header. Now the last obstacle on Argentina’s path to the title is Spain.
The final will be held next Sunday. Winning that match would make Argentina the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win the World Cup twice in a row.
But ahead of the final, Messi sees this historic win over England as a tribute to Maradona. He believes Maradona’s memory will remain inseparably tied to every great achievement of Argentina.
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