Lionel Messi: Diego Maradona Supports Us From Heaven

JAKARTA Lionel Messi said that Argentina's trip to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar received direct support from the late Diego Amando Maradona from heaven.

La Pulga claimed to feel the presence of their legend, including when they beat the Dutch on penalties to reach the semifinals on Saturday, December 10 in the morning.

"Diego is watching us from heaven. He supports us and I really hope this remains the same until the final," Messi told reporters.

Messi inspired Argentina by providing assists for Nahuel Molina's first goal before the break. The former Barcelona player then scored from the spot to keep Argentina away.

The Netherlands made a comeback to force Argentina to play in extra time. In the high-fives of goalkeeper Emi Martinez saved the Netherlands' first two penalties before Lautaro Martinez appeared to determine Albicelestes' victory.

"When Lautaro scored and we qualified, there was great joy. It was a burden on our chest. It was a very difficult game. From the start it was a very difficult game, we knew it would be like this," said Messi.

Argentina will face Croatia for a place in the final. Croatia, who is runner-up at the 2018 World Cup, also qualified through a penalty shootout against Brazil.

If successful in the final then Argentina will meet Morocco or Portugal. They will win the remaining semifinal ticket tonight and early this morning.