Image Source: News18
Lionel Messi celebrated his 36th birthday in spectacular fashion by delivering an outstanding performance in Maxi Rodriguez’s testimonial match on Saturday, June 24. The match featured Argentina facing off against Newell’s Old Boys, and notable figures such as Lionel Scaloni and former player Sergio Aguero also participated. This occasion held special significance for Messi, as he had initially launched his career with Newell’s.
The spotlight was firmly on Messi throughout the match, as he received a warm reception from the fans, who erupted in excitement after witnessing his stunning hat trick. The most memorable moment came early in the game when Argentina was awarded a free-kick from just outside the penalty box. Messi expertly executed the set piece, placing the ball perfectly into the top-right corner of the net. The goal was met with awe and admiration from both the crowd and Maxi himself, leaving a smile on his face during his own testimonial match.
After the testimonial match, Messi discussed his aspirations of leading Argentina to victory in the upcoming 2022 FIFA World Cup, scheduled for December in Qatar. In his interaction with the media, he expressed his belief that it was Argentina’s turn to claim the title but acknowledged the numerous talented players who had represented the national team in the past, despite not lifting the coveted trophy.
Regarding his retirement plans, Messi emphasized the importance of looking ahead rather than dwelling on past achievements. While winning the World Cup is a special achievement, he expressed that footballers are always focused on what lies ahead. When the time comes for him to retire from the sport, he intends to cherish and appreciate everything he has achieved throughout his career.
Messi’s Heroics Lead Argentina Victory over France in Thrilling World Cup Final
In an intense final held at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar, Lionel Messi led Argentina to a thrilling victory over France in a penalty shootout. The match was closely contested, with Argentina taking the lead in the 23rd minute when Messi successfully converted a penalty after Angel Di Maria was fouled by Ousmane Dembele inside the box.
Argentina extended their lead in the 36th minute through a rapid counterattack orchestrated by Messi. Mac Allister charged into the box and squared the ball to Di Maria, who calmly finished with a shot into the bottom corner, making it 2-0 for Argentina.
However, Kylian Mbappe had different plans and staged a stunning comeback for France. In a span of 97 seconds, Mbappe single-handedly brought France level. In the 80th minute, he converted a penalty after Kolo Muani was brought down in the Argentine box, reducing the deficit to 2-1. Soon after, in the 81st minute, Mbappe scored a sensational volley to make it 2-2.
The match entered extra time, and both teams relentlessly pursued a winning goal. Messi appeared to have secured the victory for Argentina in the 108th minute when he tapped in the ball after a deflection off Hugo Lloris, making it 3-2. However, Mbappe once again answered the call for France in the 118th minute, converting another penalty after Gonzalo Montiel’s arm deflected a shot by the Frenchman.
With the score tied at 3-3, the match went into a penalty shootout. Argentina’s goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez, emerged as the hero with remarkable saves to deny Aurelien Tchouameni and Kingsley Coman. Gonzalo Montiel then stepped up to convert the winning penalty, securing a 4-2 victory for Argentina in the shootout. Messi’s exceptional performances throughout the tournament also earned him the accolade of the best player.
