2 weeks Ago
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner recalled his decisive goal against Mexico in Qatar, describing it as a huge relief that revitalised his team's campaign. Lionel Messi completely rubbished the idea of a heated rivalry between Argentina and Mexico, saying that the alleged tensions don’t exist since there is ‘no comparison’ between the two teams’ quality. Video footage of an incident in the dressing room after the Mexico v Argentina group match at the 2022 Qatar World Cup appeared to show Messi nudging Mexico captain Andres Guardado’s jersey, sparking a media storm.
“They put themselves in a position of having a rivalry with us that doesn’t really exist," Messi told Simplemente Futbol. “There is no comparison between Argentina and Mexico, and I don’t know where it comes from." Messi insisted his relationship with the country remained positive.
“I’ve always felt very loved by the Mexican people, I’ve never disrespected anyone," he said. Lionel Messi, 35, went into the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar with the weight of the world on his shoulders (from the shattering 2014 World Cup final loss) and delivered on every front, scoring seven goals in as many matches, while also providing three assists. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner recalled his decisive goal against Mexico in Qatar, describing it as a huge relief that revitalised his team’s campaign.
“The goal I enjoyed the most in Qatar was the one against Mexico. Not because of the fans, far from it. It was a huge relief and gave us the chance to be ourselves again," said Messi, who has scored four goals against Mexico since 2006 and never lost to them in six meetings.
Footballing circles have been rife with reports speculating on whether or not the 38-year-old Messi will be lacing his boots up for his beloved Argentina yet again in 2026. It seems as if the Argentine hasn’t had enough of the same, as Messi admitted that he continues to deliberate over his desire to participate in the next edition of the World Cup, set to take place next year. “This year will be important to see what I decide regarding the 2026 World Cup," Messi exclaimed.
“I would lie if I told you I’m not thinking about that [Playing the World Cup]." (with agency inputs).
