On July 14, Zanetti spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport about Argentina's competitiveness, Messi's decisive role, and the relationship between Lautaro and Julián Álvarez.
As an Inter Milan legend and a member of the FIFA World Cup Organizing Committee, Zanetti said: "Argentina deserves to be in the semi-finals because this team never gives up until the last moment and is always full of belief. And they have unparalleled fans."
Speaking about the Argentine team's resilience, Zanetti said: "The strength of this team lies in its ability to withstand pressure and then react quickly—it's this reaction that has brought us this far. At certain moments in the game, Argentina seems to be in control, but then they run into trouble because the opponents are physically very well prepared. But after surviving that phase, the team shows a reaction in terms of overall performance, individual player ability, and personality, thus winning the game."
Regarding Messi's form, Zanetti said: "I know him very well. He was a young man when he first joined the national team. I anticipated his performance because he prepared thoroughly for this FIFA World Cup, knowing it was his last. He wants to defend our country's jersey in every possible way, just as he is doing. Fortunately, he is very decisive, and thanks to his performance and goals, we have reached the semi-finals."
Regarding Argentina's strong dominance in the group stage but struggles in the knockout rounds, Zanetti explained: "This is normal. The further you go, the more prepared the teams you encounter. Modern football is very balanced. Some national teams are well-organized and will play defensively against us. It's hard to find a solution. For example, against Switzerland, we played into extra time, and Julián Álvarez scored that brilliant goal to put us ahead. But every game is tough."
Speaking about Lautaro Martínez, Zanetti said: "As Scaloni said, Lautaro is crucial to this team. He started as a starter, and then was benched, which must have been a very difficult decision. But the type of game also has an impact. I really like the chemistry between him and Álvarez; they are truly friends. Lautaro is decisive every time he comes on. I never just look at whether he scores goals, but at everything he does, especially what he conveys—it's not easy to play in such games, but he always leaves his mark with his own style and personality."
When asked whether Lautaro or Álvarez would start in the semi-final against England, Zanetti replied with a smile: "I would play both, but I know the team needs to maintain balance. The most beautiful thing about Argentina is that the coach can choose from these names. Neither should feel like they are substitutes; both can start."
Regarding the classic Argentina vs. England match, Zanetti said: "There is huge rivalry in this matchup, but I agree with Scaloni: we need to convey the message that this is just a football game. It will be a wonderful semi-final."
Recalling his classic free-kick goal against England in the 1998 FIFA World Cup, Zanetti said: "That was a free-kick routine—we practiced it for four years in training but it never worked. Ortega was supposed to take it. Passarella told me in France: 'You take it.' Verón and Batistuta were standing over the ball, and anyone—including the English—would have thought they were going to shoot. I stood further forward on the right side of the wall. When the referee blew the whistle for the foul, Passarella almost ran onto the field shouting 'Execute the routine!' Verón passed to me, and I shot, and it was more perfect than all our practices. And that 2002 game was terrible; there was no chance, and they won with Beckham's penalty."
Speaking about Scaloni, Zanetti commented: "He is an 'ordinary' coach who does extraordinary things. He pursues simplicity and makes players feel comfortable. He has an excellent working team with Samuel, Ayala, and Aimar. They always seek to improve themselves and help the team progress, but in a concise way. Lionel is proving himself to be a great coach."
Regarding Argentina's chances of beating England, Zanetti said: "I am optimistic by nature. But focusing only on this game is enough. They also played extra time. Both teams have decisive players. Details will determine success or failure. England has Bellingham, who is a great champion, and Kane, who is a very strong striker. Limiting them will be key."
Finally, when asked what football would lose after Messi's retirement, Zanetti said: "It will be difficult because he has left an indelible mark for many years. But he has left behind an important group of young players who watched him always defend the national team's jersey. Maradona or Messi? I never liked making comparisons. I am proud that both of them are Argentinians—Diego and Leo have given us so much."
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