Atletico Madrid forward Julián Álvarez has made an impassioned pledge that the Argentina squad are united behind one goal: ensuring Lionel Messi wins another FIFA World Cup 2026 title.

Álvarez delivered the declaration after Argentina's gripping 3-1 quarter-final triumph over Switzerland, a match decided by his own extra-time strike. The goal sent the reigning champions into the semi-finals, where they will face England.

Álvarez's message to Messi

"We will do everything we can to make sure Messi wins the World Cup again," Álvarez told TyC Sports after the final whistle. "Every game at this World Cup is a battle for him. The first thing I did when I scored was run over to hug him."

The Atletico Madrid striker spoke of the emotional weight the goal carried. "I felt a lot of relief after my goal. We fought to the end, and things got complicated — even though we were playing with a numerical advantage."

A tight-knit group

Álvarez was keen to credit the collective spirit within the Argentina camp. "This group is very united, very strong. We're in a good place. There are two games left and we're going to give everything," he said.

The forward also reflected on a tournament that has repeatedly demanded late heroics. "Every World Cup match has been like this — lots of added time. But we know we fight until the very end. We've been scoring late goals, but as long as we're winning, it's all positive."

Eyes on England

Turning his attention to the semi-final against England, Álvarez struck a respectful but determined tone. "It'll be a difficult match. We know England have outstanding players. They're a great national team and they're playing very well. But now it's about recovering and preparing our own game."

On a personal level, Álvarez acknowledged how important finding the net has been to his tournament. "As a striker, it's important to score. I feel I've been getting better and better as the tournament has gone on. Hopefully I'll be even better in these final matches — but the important thing is that the team wins."

"As a forward, you always want to help by scoring goals, but you also have to run and defend. We all do it together, so as long as the team keeps winning, we're all happy," he added.