Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni praised his players after their 2-1 win over England in the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final, saying the team had already done “amazing” and will now give everything to win the title.Argentina came from behind in Atlanta to book a place in Sunday’s World Cup final against Spain. Meanwhile, England missed out on their first World Cup since 1966 and now face France in the third round. Scaloni was full of praise for his team and thanked every player, including those who came off the bench.“We have to thank the players, it is difficult to describe what the team has done with words. We will try to win the final, but what these guys have already achieved is amazing. I thank the players. Without them it would not have been possible. Special mention to those who don’t play and support from abroad. They are an incredible team. Those who came from the bench today were important,” said Scaloni in the post-match press conference.
‘We’ll give everything’
Scaloni said personal accolades don’t matter to him. His concern is to ensure that the team is ready to face any challenge.“I hope people think good of me, but honestly, it doesn’t worry me. It doesn’t move me. My concern is that these guys come to the field healthy and that there’s always tomorrow. I think we’re fair winners. We’re ready to face what’s coming”.Looking ahead to the final against Spain, Scaloni promised that Argentina will stop at nothing to retain the World Cup.“We will try to win, we will give everything. But this is already impressive. We are unique and not arrogant. It’s the heart. The jersey is appropriate. Give everything to the end, give nothing back,” Scaloni said.
‘This team plays well when it’s in trouble’
Scaloni said his team did not lose faith even though they were close to the game. He saw that Argentina created enough chances and attacked until victory came.“In football, as in life, you have to give everything until the end. This team plays well when it is in trouble. If it hadn’t gone in, we would have lost 1-0 with seven goals scored. We kept pushing until the end. We thought that the game against Egypt was the highlight, and this one surpassed them,” said Scaloni.He also talked about how quickly attitudes change in football.“These are the only moments of happiness that we have. Tomorrow, the pain will start again. These players do not feel the burden of responsibility. We don’t win because we win or not. The most important thing is how we face the challenges,” he added.
Argentina made the final with Spain
England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon and looked on course for victory. But Argentina fought hard.Enzo Fernandez equalized 85 minutes earlier Lionel Messi set up Lautaro Martinez’s stoppage-time winner, completing a remarkable comeback.The game was a close-fought affair throughout, with both teams creating limited chances in the first half. Argentina will now face Spain in the tournament FIFA World Cup The 2026 final is on Sunday, when England face France in the third round.
