Messi-ah Complex: Argentina's Archbishop Quotes Messi Before World Cup Showdown

Last Updated:July 10, 2026, 15:54 IST

Lionel Messi's message of unity was quoted during Argentina's Independence Day Mass in Buenos Aires as the world champions prepared for their World Cup quarter-final.

Lionel Messi’s message of unity took centre stage during Argentina’s Independence Day celebrations on Thursday, with Buenos Aires Archbishop Jorge Garcia Cuerva invoking the captain’s famous words as the reigning world champions prepare for a crucial FIFA World Cup quarter-final against Switzerland.

Speaking during a special Mass at Buenos Aires Cathedral, Garcia Cuerva urged Argentines to stand together by recalling the message Messi shared after leading the country to World Cup glory in Qatar four years ago.

The ceremony, which was also attended by Argentine President Javier Milei, carried added significance as Lionel Scaloni’s side continues its bid for another world title in North America.

“Let us keep our shirts on, and with passion, let us bring to life the message that Lionel Messi once posted on his social media," Garcia Cuerva said before reading the captain’s words.

“When we Argentines fight together and stand united, we are capable of achieving whatever we set our minds to," Messi wrote after Argentina’s unforgettable triumph at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

The Archbishop used the message as a broader appeal for national unity, linking the country’s Independence Day celebrations with the spirit that carried Argentina to football’s greatest prize.

The tribute comes just days after Argentina produced one of the most dramatic comebacks of the tournament, recovering from a two-goal deficit to defeat Egypt 3-2 in the Round of 16. Enzo Fernandez struck the decisive stoppage-time winner to send the defending champions into the last eight.

Argentina will now turn their attention to a quarter-final showdown with Switzerland as they continue their pursuit of back-to-back World Cup titles.

At 39, Messi is once again leading from the front in what is his sixth consecutive World Cup appearance. The Inter Miami forward has found the net in each of Argentina’s five matches at the tournament and currently leads the Golden Boot standings with eight goals.

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Siddarth Sriram

After training in the field of broadcast media, Siddarth, as a sub-editor for News18 Sports, currently dabbles in putting together stories, from across a plethora of sports, onto a digital canvas. His...Read More

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