Shakira hails Lionel Messi ahead of World Cup final, says he is 'beyond extraordinary'

Argentina booked their place in the final after a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in the semi-finals.

After trailing at half-time, the defending champions fought back through Enzo Fernández before Lautaro Martínez scored a stoppage-time winner to seal their place in the title clash.

Shakira's message for Messi

Taking to Instagram, Shakira shared a photograph of Messi and applauded the 39-year-old captain for continuing to perform at the highest level.

"What Leo Messi 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 by what others say," she wrote.

The Colombian singer, whose World Cup anthems have become synonymous with football's biggest tournament, also praised Messi's wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, for being a constant source of support.

"And I know that having a woman like Antonela Roccuzzo by his side gives him the strength and inspiration to prove that!"

Shakira's Instagram story praising Leo Messi. Photo: Screenshot

Roccuzzo later reshared Shakira's Instagram story on her own account.

Messi chasing another World Cup glory

Messi heads into the World Cup final as one of the leading contenders for the tournament's Golden Boot, alongside France captain Kylian Mbappé.

The Argentina skipper has played a pivotal role in his team's run to the final, where the defending champions will face Spain in a bid to retain their world title.

Messi hits back at critics

Following Argentina's semi-final win over England, Messi dismissed suggestions that his team had benefited from favourable officiating or preferential treatment.

"We've been the best over these past four years, whether people like it or not," Messi said after the match.

"Once again, we've established ourselves among the top two teams in the world. That proves everything we've achieved is no fluke and that nothing was handed to us."

Argentina will now look to cap another memorable campaign by defeating Spain in the World Cup final and securing a second consecutive global crown.