Argentina forward Lionel Messi (10) celebrates after the semifinal match against Croatia during the 2022 World Cup at Lusail Stadium. Yukihito Taguchi-USA TODAY Sports

Watch: Lionel Messi brought to tears in interview after Argentina clinch World Cup final berth

By Zac Wassink | Last updated 12/15/22

Superstar Lionel Messi became quite emotional during an interview that has since gone viral that occurred shortly after Argentina clinched a berth in the FIFA World Cup final.

As noted by News.com.au (h/t New York Post) and DJ Byrnes of the Comeback, Argentinian football host Sofia Martinez of Publica Television spoke with Messi following Argentina's 3-0 victory over Croatia in the semifinal contest.

"The last thing I want to tell you, and is not a question, but I just wanted to say; the World Cup final is coming and sure, we all [Argentinians] want to win the Cup," Martinez said to Messi. "I just want to tell you that no matter the results, there’s something that no one can take from you and that is the fact you resonated with Argentinians, every single one. I’m being serious.

"There’s no kid who doesn’t have your team shirt. No matter if it is a fake, real, or made-up one. Truly, you made your mark in everyone’s life and that to me is beyond winning any World Cup. No one can take that from you and this is my gratitude for such amount of happiness you bring to a lot of people. I seriously hope you take these words into your heart because I really believe that’s more important than winning a World Cup and you already have it, so thank you, captain."

A visibly touched Messi did all he could to hold tears in his eyes as Martinez finished her comments:

Messi is viewed by many as arguably the greatest overall footballer in history. His accomplishments include hoisting the UEFA Champions League trophy on four occasions, earning seven Ballon d'Or titles and guiding Argentina to a Copa America victory. The World Cup has always eluded him, however, but that can change when he and Argentina face France in the final on Sunday.

Messi turned 35 years old this past June and suggested earlier this week he's about to play in the last World Cup match of his generational career.

"I am very happy for finishing my journey in World Cups in a final, to play the last game in a final. That is really very gratifying," Messi explained after Tuesday's result, per Sky Sports News. "Everything I lived in this World Cup has been emotional, seeing how much it has been enjoyed in Argentina. There are a lot of years from this year to the next one. I don't think I will be able to do that. To finish this way is brilliant."

The next World Cup will occur in the summer of 2026.

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