Argentina defender Facundo Medina has said he and his teammates are ready to “give everything” on the pitch to ensure Lionel Messi enjoys the perfect farewell at what is widely expected to be the legendary captain’s final FIFA World Cup.
The heartfelt remarks came after Argentina’s convincing 2-0 victory over Austria, a match in which Messi scored both goals to continue his outstanding tournament. Medina played a pivotal role in the opening goal, providing the assist that prompted the Argentine captain to compare it with the trademark cut-back passes he once received from former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba.
Speaking to FIFA’s official website ahead of Argentina’s final Group Stage fixture against Jordan, Medina reflected on Messi’s generous praise while outlining the squad’s determination to make the tournament a memorable one for their captain.
After the Austria match, Messi recalled the instinctive partnership he shared with Alba during their years together at Barcelona.
“I always used to tell Jordi to cut the ball back because I knew I’d get there,” Messi said. “Medina’s pass reminded me of those old Barcelona days.”
Receiving such praise from one of football’s greatest players could easily overwhelm any teammate, but Medina responded with characteristic humility.
“I think Messi was a little too generous,” he said.
“That pass reminded me of those great Barcelona days as well, but everything tends to be exaggerated these days. I simply tried to do my job and give my best for the team.”
While modest about his contribution, Medina was emphatic when discussing Argentina’s ambitions for the remainder of the tournament.
With a place in the knockout stage already secured, the reigning world champions now face what the defender described as “six finals” on the road to another World Cup title. Every match from this point onwards is effectively a must-win encounter, and Medina insists the squad is fully committed to achieving its ultimate objective.
“We still have six finals ahead of us,” he said.
“We’ll give everything we have. Whatever position the coach asks us to play, we’ll fight for every ball to make our captain’s farewell as beautiful and dignified as possible. We’re ready to give our lives on the pitch for Messi.”
His comments underline the immense respect Messi commands within the Argentina dressing room. Since guiding his country to World Cup glory in 2022, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has remained the team’s inspirational leader and decisive figure. Even in the latter stages of his career, he continues to influence matches with moments of brilliance and leadership.
Argentina have once again established themselves among the favourites for the title after winning their opening two group matches with authority. Lionel Scaloni’s side combines experienced champions with an emerging generation of talented players, creating a squad that is both balanced and highly competitive.
For many of those younger players, the opportunity to share the field with Messi represents a career-defining experience. Their ambition extends beyond defending Argentina’s world title; they are equally determined to help one of football’s greatest icons conclude his international career in the most fitting way possible.
Medina’s words capture the spirit that has long defined this Argentina side. Individual recognition is secondary to collective success, and every player appears united behind a single objective: delivering another World Cup triumph while giving their captain a farewell worthy of his extraordinary legacy.