New Delhi, July 17 -- Lionel Messi has dismissed allegations that Argentina have benefited from favourable treatment at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the reigning champions have earned every step of their run to a second successive final through hard work and resilience.

Speaking after Argentina's dramatic 2-1 comeback win over England in the FIFA World Cup semi-finals, Lionel Messi was responding to claims that the refereeing in the tournament was favourable towards Argentina.

"We've been the best over these past four years, either you like it or not, and no matter what anyone says," the 39-year-old said, The Associated Press reported.

"Once again, we've established ourselves among the top two teams in the world. That proves that...