As Argentina prepares to face Spain in the FIFA World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, fans will be fervently chanting the name of Lionel Messi. For the 39-year-old football icon, this match is not just another opportunity to make history; it marks a significant return to the same stadium where he announced his international retirement a decade ago.
Event Context
In 2016, Argentina faced a devastating defeat against Chile in the Copa America final, marking their third consecutive loss in a major final, following the 2014 World Cup and the 2015 Copa America. At just 29 years old, Lionel Messi seemed deeply affected by the mounting criticism from Argentine fans, and the sting of the loss to Chile felt like a pivotal moment in his career. However, it turned out to be the beginning of a new chapter for the iconic player.
After enduring immense pressure from fans and even politicians, Messi announced his return just two months later. During Argentina’s qualification campaign for the 2018 World Cup, the team struggled, but Messi emerged as a savior in the decisive qualifying match in Quito. Following Ecuador’s early goal, he delivered a stunning hat-trick, leading Argentina to a 3-1 comeback victory and securing their place in the World Cup single-handedly.
Unfortunately, the 2018 World Cup did not bring the success fans hoped for, as the team exited in the Round of 16 under coach Jorge Sampaoli. Yet, the best was still ahead. In 2022, Messi guided Argentina to victory in the World Cup held in Qatar, solidifying his legacy. The team’s achievements didn’t halt there, as they also clinched the Copa America title in 2024.
Now, Messi finds himself with another opportunity to make history, returning to the very stadium where his struggles began. Only Italy (1934, 1938) and Brazil (1958, 1962) have won back-to-back World Cups, and Messi aims to join this elite group.
‘For me, the national team is over’: Lionel Messi
In a tense match that remained scoreless through extra time, Chile emerged victorious in the penalty shootout. Lionel Messi notably missed his chance to score, sending his penalty kick soaring over the crossbar.
Team Analysis
Shortly after, he revealed his decision to retire from international competition, declaring, ‘My time with the national team has come to an end.’
Match Outlook
Initially appointed as interim coach by the Argentina Football Association, Lionel Scaloni surprised many by securing the position long-term. He adeptly constructed a team that showcased Lionel Messi’s talents without becoming overly reliant on him. Key players like Rodrigo De Paul, Cristian Romero, and Emiliano Martinez formed a solid foundation, enabling the team to effectively press, defend, and create scoring opportunities. Their efforts culminated in a historic victory against Brazil in the 2021 Copa America final, ending a 28-year drought for a major trophy.
