Scaloni Urges Fans to Cherish Messi Ahead of Argentina’s World Cup Final Against Spain

Posted : 18 July 2026

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has called on football supporters to appreciate every remaining moment of Lionel Messi's international career as the defending champions prepare to face Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. With Messi set to lead his country into another title decider at the age of 39, Scaloni described the captain as one of the greatest figures the sport has ever produced and urged fans to enjoy witnessing his brilliance while they still can.

Scaloni praised Messi's remarkable achievements with Argentina, highlighting his role in delivering the 2022 World Cup and consecutive Copa América triumphs. The coach noted that Messi's journey with the national team has been extraordinary, especially after the forward briefly stepped away from international football following Argentina's Copa América final defeat to Chile a decade ago.

The emotional bond between player and coach was evident after Argentina's dramatic 2-1 semifinal victory over England, when the pair embraced on the pitch. Messi described the win as a historic moment, while Scaloni said it filled him with pride to see the legendary forward continue performing at such an elite level despite approaching his 40th birthday. Messi has scored eight goals at this World Cup and has extended his record as the tournament's all-time leading scorer with 21 goals.

Scaloni compared Messi's lasting influence to that of the late Diego Maradona, saying Argentina should treasure the opportunity to watch another football icon represent the country. He also praised the current generation of players for helping transform Argentina into one of international football's dominant forces after ending a 28-year wait for a major trophy with their Copa América success in 2021.

While refusing to speculate on whether Sunday's final will be Messi's last World Cup appearance, Scaloni acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding the veteran's international future. Argentina are aiming to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup, but Scaloni expects a stern challenge from European champions Spain, describing every aspect of their opponents as a concern.

Regardless of the result, Scaloni believes his team's journey to another World Cup final has already been a remarkable achievement. However, the reigning champions now have one final hurdle to clear as they chase another historic title with Messi once again leading the way.

Scaloni Urges Fans to Cherish Messi Ahead of Argentina’s World Cup Final Against Spain

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