Messi Dismisses Mexico Rivalry: “There’s No Comparison With Argentina”

World Cup winner Lionel Messi has reignited tensions with Mexican fans, stating in a recent interview that there is no real rivalry between Argentina and Mexico. Speaking to Simplemente Fútbol on YouTube, the Argentina captain said, "They put themselves in a position of having a rivalry with us that doesn't really exist. There's no comparison between Argentina and Mexico, and I don't know where that came from."

The two national teams have faced off multiple times at the World Cup, including Argentina’s 2-0 win in the group stage of Qatar 2022. That match marked a turning point in Messi’s relationship with Mexican fans.

"I don’t know what happened with the Mexicans, or when that anger started," said Messi. "I’ve always felt very loved by the people of Mexico. I never disrespected anyone." He has scored four goals against El Tri and has never lost to them in an official match.

Messi called his goal against Mexico in Qatar the most emotional of the tournament, not because of the fans, but due to the pressure it relieved: "It was a huge relief and gave us peace of mind to get back to being ourselves."

The tension escalated off the field after the infamous locker room incident involving Andrés Guardado’s jersey. Mexican boxing champion Canelo Álvarez accused Messi of disrespecting the country, though he later apologized for the misunderstanding.

Earlier this year in Las Vegas, Messi was booed during a friendly between Inter Miami and Club América. In response, he scored and celebrated by holding up three fingers — a reference to Argentina’s three World Cup titles.