We're unique and it's not arrogance; it comes from heart: Scaloni after holders Argentina enter FIFA WC final
Atlanta, July 16
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni opened up about the pure ecstasy of reaching another World Cup final and stated that his squad never ceases to amaze him and it is difficult to explain how unique his team is.
Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez, with the help of two Lionel Messi assists, struck the late goals in a dramatic turnaround in Atlanta just as England were closing in on their first final in 60 years, following Anthony Gordon's 55th-minute goal.
Instead, La Albiceleste, following another comeback to rival their Round of 16 recovery against Egypt, can now look forward to their seventh World Cup final, and stand a step away from retaining their world crown.
"I'm speechless, speechless. What a joy for our country, for our people," he said after the final whistle. "The other day I said that this squad never ceases to amaze me. And after this it's very difficult to get people to understand what these players are capable of. It's incredible. We're unique, really, and that's not arrogance - it comes from the heart. We're unique. These fans helped us win the match today, so I'm grateful."
Later, at the press conference, the coach spoke specifically about how the match unfolded, "To be honest, the team plays best when it's under pressure. And when we're under pressure and the opposition hesitates just a little, that's when we smell blood and go all the way. You feel as though there's a vacuum cleaner in the goal pulling you towards it.
"From the moment they scored, it was a display that sums up everything we want from football. Football isn't just about tactics, strategy and playing beautifully. Football is everything that was encapsulated in those 40 minutes. And when we made it 2-1, we had to dig in, and we did that right until the end too. It's a demonstration of everything we're taught about what football is when we're little."
— IANS
Reader Comments
Messi's assists were world-class as always, but full credit to the entire squad for that mentality. Argentina plays with their heart on their sleeve. As an Indian football fan, I wish our team could develop similar resilience one day. 🏆⚽
Scaloni's comments about "smelling blood" when under pressure is exactly what sets champions apart. That second-half performance was pure theatre. England were outplayed when it mattered most. Argentina truly are unique - no other team has this emotional connection with their fans.
While I love Argentina's passion, calling them 'unique' feels a bit much when Brazil and Germany have similar histories. But credit where it's due - that second half was phenomenal. The way they turned the game around shows incredible mental strength. Respect to Scaloni for building such a team culture. 👏⚽
Argentina vs France final again? 🔥 This could be the biggest World Cup final ever! Scaloni's 'vacuum cleaner in the goal' analogy is brilliant. As an Indian who woke up at 3 AM to watch this match, it was totally worth it. Messi deserves another trophy before retirement. 🏆🇦🇷
Scaloni's humility is refreshing. Most managers would be bragging after such a win, but he's thanking the fans and talking about football's essence. That's what makes Argentina special - their connection with the people. From Maradona to Messi, it's always been about more than just tactics. 🇦🇷❤️
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