Lionel Messi says defeat to Saudi Arabia in their first game played a key role in Argentina reaching the final at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
La Albiceleste have now bounced back in convincing fashion to make their second final in eight years.
Messi and his teammates were in devastating form as they edged out Croatia in the semi-final on Tuesday night.
“To start in such a way in a World Cup was a blow, we did not think we would lose to Saudi Arabia. It was an acid test for this whole squad but this squad proved how strong we are.
“We won the other matches. It was very difficult what we did because every match was a final and we were aware if we did not win things would be complicated for us.
“This is a mental load because we knew things would be more complicated for us. We managed to win five finals and I hope it will be this way for the final game.
“Internally we were confident that we would make it because we know what we are capable of as a squad. We lost in the first match due to fine details but it helped us to be stronger.
“Let’s enjoy this moment. It’s great to see the joy in our fans here and in Argentina. We are going to give all that we have in the final but also need to enjoy what we achieved.
“I am enjoying this moment a lot. We feel strong before the game even after a very long last game, the previous one wasn’t easy at all. We were tired but the group brought its energy on the pitch to face this game.”