Shakira expressed her admiration for Lionel Messi and his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, following Argentina's thrilling 2-1 victory over England in the World Cup semifinal. The Colombian singer took to Instagram to commend Messi's performance and character after the match, which secured Argentina's spot in the World Cup final.
"What @leomessi is doing is beyond extraordinary! It shows the values of a man who is deeply committed and disciplined, challenging time and all odds. Proving that a person is not defined by age or what others say," Shakira wrote on her Instagram story, accompanying a photo of the star player. She added, "And I know that having a women like @antonelaroccuzzo [Messi’s wife] by his side gives him the strength and inspiration to prove that!"
Argentina's path to the final was a dramatic one. After a scoreless first half, England took the lead in the second half. However, Argentina mounted a comeback, scoring two goals in the final minutes of regulation and stoppage time to secure the win. Messi was instrumental in the victory, providing both assists for the goals. He assisted Enzo Fernández for the equalizer in the 85th minute and later delivered a cross for Lisandro Martínez's game-winning header.
Messi’s wife also shared her pride, posting a photo of him on her Instagram story with the caption, "What a great pride!!!!! 🙌🙌🙌🙌 love youuuu @leomessi.” The couple has known each other since childhood in Rosario, Argentina.
Shakira, who wrote the official song for the 2026 World Cup, "Dai Dai," is scheduled to perform during the halftime show at the upcoming final, alongside Madonna and Justin Bieber. The final is set to take place on Sunday at 3 p.m. ET.
Messi is currently tied with Kylian Mbappé for the Golden Boot with eight goals, two ahead of England's Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane. The outcome of that race will be determined after the World Cup final against Spain. Messi's future in the World Cup is uncertain, as he would be 43 by the time of the 2030 tournament. He is currently contracted with his MLS team through 2028.