Inter captain Lautaro Martinez broke into tears during a post-match interview after scoring the winning goal for Argentina in the World Cup semifinal against England: ‘I dreamed it, I swear.’

Inter star Lautaro Martinez, the 2005-26 Serie A top goal-scorer, netted the winning goal for Argentina in a 2-1 victory over England on Wednesday, setting up a final between the Seleccion and Spain.

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The three-time Scudetto winner was visibly moved during his post-match interview immediately following the game.

Lautaro struggled to continue speaking after just a few words: “I don’t know, the truth…

“It’s very strong, very strong, really. I’ve always dreamed of scoring this goal since the first time my father bought me football boots.”

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JULY 15: Lautaro Martinez #22 of Argentina celebrates after scoring the team’s second goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Semi Final match between England and Argentina at Atlanta Stadium on July 15, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)

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Lautaro was so emotional that he took another pause before continuing: “To my mom, who, when I left for Racing, never stopped making my bed. To me, that means more than a goal or a final.

“To my children, who changed my life. They made me slow down and appreciate everything I’m experiencing. I’m a grown man now. I’m a man, I enjoy life.

“I dreamed it, I swear. I told Alexis [Mac Allister] that I was going to score, and I told Facu Medina that I would come on and win the game.

“We are going to face an opponent [Spain] of tremendous quality, unbeaten in 37 matches, with outstanding players. Now it’s time to rest and recover as much positive energy as possible.”

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Video: Lautaro Martinez in tears as Argentina reach World Cup Final

Lautaro Martínez : “THIS IS THE KIND OF MOMENT I PLAY FOOTBALL FOR.””Ever since the day my father gave me my first pair of cleats, I’ve always dreamed of living moments like this one.”❤️