Argentina's resilience in their World Cup semi-final victory over England did not surprise their captain, Lionel Messi. The world champions came from behind to win 2-1 in Atlanta on Wednesday, with Messi providing assists for Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez in the final minutes.
The victory follows a tournament pattern of dramatic comebacks, including extra-time wins over Cape Verde and Switzerland.
"This group doesn't surprise me," Messi told reporters. "When we come together and are united, it always gives us an extra boost."
Messi, playing in his sixth World Cup, is now looking forward to the final against 2010 champions Spain in New Jersey on Sunday.
"It's a team I know well," said the former Barcelona star, who faced many of Spain's players during his 17 years in La Liga. "It's a special match, a World Cup final. I imagine it's going to be an even contest."
The win held extra significance given the historic rivalry between Argentina and England over the Falkland Islands.