Lionel Messi has rejected claims that FIFA has shown favour to him and Argentina during the ongoing World Cup.
Messi said some people could not accept that Argentina had qualified for the final. He said the team had been the world's best side for the past four years, whether people liked it or not.
Head work leads Argentina to final: Messi
He said Argentina had earned its success through hard work and that nothing had been given to the team for free.
Messi said critics could continue making whatever claims they wished, but Argentina would keep competing in every match.
The allegations of favourable treatment have been discussed throughout the tournament. The debate grew after Argentina's opening match, when Messi avoided a possible booking following a challenge on Algerian captain Aissa Mandi.
The controversy continued after Argentina's Round of 16 match against Egypt, with members of the Egyptian team also raising concerns over refereeing decisions.
