Lionel Messi has sent a stirring message to his Argentina teammates and everyone involved with the national team ahead of Sunday's World Cup final against Spain. The 39-year-old has led his country to another World Cup final, scoring eight goals as Argentina look to defend the title they won in Qatar four years ago.
Messi's emotional Instagram post
In an Instagram post, Messi wrote: 'The nicest thing about all these years was never just the titles, but all the path. Share the day to day with this group, compete together, get up in the difficult moments and enjoy every step. Thanks to each of my teammates, the technical staff and all the people who work every day to keep this national team a family. Whatever happens tomorrow, this group has already written a story that we will never forget and that no one can erase. COME ON ARGENTINA ❤️'
Tournament performance and Golden Boot race
Messi has had an incredible tournament, not only scoring but also providing assists for both goals against England in the semi-finals. Sunday's final looks likely to be his last World Cup outing. He still has a chance to win the Golden Boot but faces stiff competition from Kylian Mbappe, who leads with 10 goals. Messi needs two goals to match Mbappe's tally and three to overtake him. The tie-breaker is assists, where both are level on four, so minutes played would decide if they finish level on goals, favoring Mbappe. Thus, Messi needs a hat-trick to secure the Golden Boot outright.
Ronaldinho praises Argentina's unity
Brazil legend Ronaldinho, Messi's former Barcelona teammate, echoed the captain's sentiments. 'That's Argentina for you, it's the kind of football I love to watch, the dedication the players show in every match,' Ronaldinho told Ge Globo. 'Argentina has always been like this, right? It's pure grit, pure heart. It already has that reputation and, once again, it's arriving in the same way. And there's Messi, right, my friend? He can solve the team's problems. The team has that humility. Everyone runs for him, they know when to give him the ball, and they're aware that he can make the difference and decide a match. So, I think the unity they have is very beautiful to see.'
Argentina's journey to the final
Argentina's wins over Cape Verde, Egypt, Switzerland and England have all come through adversity in tense atmospheres. The team has repeatedly produced under pressure, and Messi has expressed deep appreciation for the group's resilience. The final takes place in New Jersey, where Argentina will face Spain in what promises to be a thrilling conclusion to the tournament.
