Global music icon Shakira is glowing for Lionel Messi after Argentina secured a dramatic victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final match, with a sensational 2-1 comeback victory over England in the semifinal in Atlanta.
Messi was once again instrumental in Argentina’s excellent World Cup campaign, making two crucial assists as the defending champions survived a late deficit to make a blockbuster final with Spain.
Shakira Hails Messi's Dedication
Shakira took to Instagram after Argentina’s victory to congratulate Messi and describe his success in football at the age of 39 as a model for the world which is also a lesson that transcends football.
"What Leo Messi is doing is beyond extraordinary! It shows the values of a man who is deeply committed and disciplined, challenging time and all odds. Proving that a person is not defined by age or by what others say," Shakira said.
The Colombian superstar also praised Messi’s wife Antonela Roccuzzo for being a source of strength throughout the footballer's illustrious career.
"And I know that having a woman like Antonela Roccuzzo by his side gives him the strength and inspiration to prove that," she added.
Roccuzzo later acknowledged the heartfelt message by resharing Shakira’s Instagram Story, which quickly gained social media attention.
Messi Continues to Shine
Messi has been at the heart of Argentina’s run to another World Cup final. He is currently tied with France captain Kylian Mbappé in the race for the tournament’s Golden Boot but leads the French star on assists, the first tiebreaker used to determine the award.
Messi did not get on the scoresheet against England, but he orchestrated Argentina’s comeback with two perfectly weighted assists.
Argentina trailed 1-0 until the 85th minute before scoring twice at the end to complete another dramatic turnaround.
The win continued a trend which Argentina’s team was able to maintain throughout the campaign with Lionel Scaloni’s side scoring late goals to survive difficult matches.
Scaloni Proud of Argentina's Fighting Spirit
And even after the semifinal, Lionel Scaloni, the Argentina head coach, struggled to hide his emotions while praising his players’ character and resilience.
"I'm speechless. A joy for our country, our people. This group never ceases to amaze me," Scaloni said.
"My voice is breaking because this is a demonstration of so many things: team spirit, brotherhood, never giving up, fighting until the very end."
The Argentina coach also expressed confidence before the final and said the team will do everything in the last to defend their title.
"We’re going to try to win and give it our all. These players continue to inspire everyone with what they are demonstrating on the pitch," he said.
Argentina Eye Historic Title Defence
Argentina will now face Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final in one of the biggest games in international football.
Scaloni's men will hope for a stronger start after repeatedly relying on late comebacks during the tournament.
If Argentina lift the trophy, they'll become only the third country in World Cup history to successfully defend the title, joining Italy (1934 and 1938) and Brazil (1958 and 1962).
With Messi still winning games and world stars like Shakira applauding his accomplishments, Argentina will go into the final knowing history is within reach.
