World Cup 2014: Messi Speaks Out Ahead of Argentina’s Semi-Final Showdown with Netherlands
Lionel Messi has broken his silence ahead of Argentina’s highly anticipated World Cup semi-final clash with the Netherlands, sharing his thoughts on his team’s journey so far and the challenges that lie ahead. The usually reserved captain struck a calm and confident tone, proud of what his side has accomplished but clearly focused on the ultimate prize.
Speaking to the Times of India, the FC Barcelona forward highlighted the significance of Argentina’s achievement in reaching the last four of a World Cup for the first time since 1990.
“We are in the semi-finals after 24 years and that says a lot. We are not satisfied, although, as we think match by match, we always strive to achieve a better result,” Messi said. “But we have won our first five matches, and only one match, against Switzerland, went to extra time. So, yes, in that aspect, it is satisfying indeed.”
Argentina’s road to the semi-finals has been solid, if not always spectacular. Victories over Bosnia and Herzegovina, Iran, and Nigeria in the group stage were followed by narrow knockout wins over Switzerland and Belgium. Messi acknowledged that the level of performance varied depending on the opponent but pointed out that the most crucial thing was progress.
“You cannot always play at the same level. It depends a lot on your opponents too. Switzerland and Belgium are two European sides with a strong World Cup pedigree. But we beat them — and that was the most important thing,” he explained. “Many big teams like Spain, Italy, England, France and Uruguay are already eliminated. Our chances of reaching the final are intact. We remain positive.”
Messi, who has scored four goals so far in the tournament, downplayed his own contributions, stressing that Argentina’s success has been built on collective effort rather than individual brilliance.
“Football is a team game. Yes, I scored some important goals that helped our team. But there are 10 other members of the team who helped us get to where we are,” he said. “Gonzalo Higuaín scored the winning goal against Belgium and we were all happy to defend that advantage the rest of the game. Everyone had to fight for everything.”
As Argentina prepares to face a well-organised Dutch team led by Louis van Gaal, Messi remains both respectful and cautiously optimistic. The Netherlands, who reached the final in 2010, pose a serious threat.
“They have reached the semi-finals for the second time in a row and they will be looking to add something to their performances to reach the final,” Messi noted. “We must find a perfect balance between attack and defense.”
Argentina will meet the Netherlands at the Arena Corinthians in São Paulo, with a place in the World Cup final on the line. For Messi and Argentina, the dream of lifting the trophy for the first time since 1986 is now within touching distance — but there remains one more formidable hurdle to overcome.
