After many years of failure with the Albiceleste, having featured in numerous finals across all competitions, Messi redeemed himself as he led Argentina to their first trophy since their Copa America triumph in 1993.
The 34-year-old was influential throughout the competition to help Lionel Scaloni’s men to the final and Angel Di Maria’s lone goal was enough to beat Tite’s side.
“It’s crazy, the happiness the feeling is inexplicable. I knew that at some point it was going to happen,” said Messi on TyC Sports.
“The objective was clear, and we were able to be champions. The happiness is immense. Many times I have dreamed of this.”
Messi revealed what he told Di Maria, who scored the winner on the 22nd minute, after the final whistle.
“I told Fideo [Di Maria] that today he was going to have his revenge and that’s how it was,” continued Messi.
“I want to share this with those teammates who were so close so many times and it was not given to them. This is also for them.
“I feel that God was saving this moment for me, against Brazil in the final and in his country. Great credit has to go to [the coach] Lionel [Scaloni]. He always wanted the best for the national team. He knew how to put together a winning team and he deserves your appreciation.
“I needed to get rid of the thorn of being able to achieve something with the national team. I had been very close for many years. I knew that at some point it was going to go wrong, it was going to happen and I think there is no better moment than this.”
