India, July 16 -- Lionel Messi paid an emotional tribute to Argentine legend Diego Maradona after guiding Argentina into the FIFA World Cup 2026 final with victory over England in the semi-finals on Wednesday (July 15). Shortly after the final whistle, Messi dedicated the memorable win to Maradona and said, "I hope Diego is celebrating wherever he is." The heartfelt message quickly went viral across social media, with fans praising the captain for remembering one of Argentina's greatest football icons on another historic night for La Albiceleste.

Lionel Messi after Argentina reached the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.

July 15, 2026

Maradona famously inspired Argentina to World Cup glory in 1986 and remains one of the country's most revered ...