**Key Sentences Extracted:**

1.

Born and raised in Rosario, Argentina, Messi’s journey to stardom began at a young age, and his dedication to the sport led him down a different path than that of a traditional college education.

At just six years old, he joined the youth team of his local club, Newell’s Old Boys.

Messi made his first-team debut for Barcelona in 2004, at the age of 17, and quickly became a key player for the club.

His playing style, records, and achievements have solidified his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

Lionel Messi, the iconic figure in the world of soccer, has embarked on a new chapter in his illustrious career with Inter Miami in the United States.

The will to win for him is because of what he shows us on the pitch.

Messi is more comfortable than he has ever been in Argentina’s blue and white, due in large part to Scaloni and the players the manager has chosen as Messi’s supporting cast.

There is no doubt that Messi had the support crew around him to achieve what he did at Barca, but that same environment was not able to be implemented for Argentina.

I do think that, you know, Leo Messi has come around and that people have finally started to embrace him.

His last chance is coming up.

The streets of Buenos Aires erupted with joy.

We have a wonderful group and the fans continue to show how much they care about me.

Messi’s place in history assured regardless of outcome of final.

To some it’s not clear whether Messi landing a World Cup title on Sunday will settle this ‘greatest ever’ debate.

With all due respect, Pelé and Diego Maradona—in that order—are in their own orbit.

His playing style, records, and achievements have solidified his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time.

These sentences highlight Messi’s early dedication, his achievements, unique journey, and his inspiring influence, making him a powerful role model for aspiring young footballers.

**Key Sentences Extracted:**

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Title:

Content: Messi’s place in history assured regardless of outcome of final

What you need to know:

To some it’s not clear whether Messi landing a World Cup title on Sunday will settle this ‘greatest ever’ debate. Your columnist, however, reckons that not even a win for La Albiceleste on Sunday will sway things in Messi's favour. With all due respect, Pelé and Diego Maradona—in that order—are in their own orbit. And, from the looks of it, will be for a pretty long time.

The tone of most observers ahead of tomorrow's Fifa World Cup final is certain and prescriptive. The laboured attempt of Leo Messi's teammates at football stardom has been largely deemed a regrettable disaster.

Such observers clinch their argument by pointing out how decisive Messi has been in securing La Albiceleste a date with France's Les Bleus.

And, lest we forget, he has been; the penalty miss against Poland notwithstanding. By walking on water, Messi has invited comparisons; he with Jesus, his teammates with the disciples.

La Albiceleste’s demigod has gone about business in the Qatari Desert—much like Jesus did across 40 days in the Judaean Desert—with a wonderfully infectious enthusiasm and single-mindedness.

Messi has successfully fought battles and temptations in recent weeks. It didn’t seem to occur to him that other players in Argentina's squad were scarcely at ease with themselves (à la Lautaro Martínez).

After the shock loss that Saudi Arabia inflicted, there was reason to believe—or, at least, to hope—that the little Argentine's swansong World Cup would go down extremely badly. Now—with the finale upon us—observers sense, presumably, that even those whose faith wavers in Messi, will remain apostles of the messianic role of Messi.

There is a latent danger though in elevating a single match to the realm of that that is career defining. There are those who are desirous of using the 2022 World Cup final as a referendum on the long-running Messi versus Cristiano Ronaldo showdown. Messi, they add, can only lay down the gauntlet if he ends up a World Cup winner.

This shouldn’t be the case. By now, it should be readily apparent to lovers of the beautiful game that Messi long established himself as the greatest player of his generation.

Not even Ronaldo can lace his boots. Heck, no living player can manage to take two different sets of Argentine outfits acutely aware of their own inadequacies to a World Cup final.

Yet that is a sliver of what makes Messi such a juggernaut. The question as to whether his guile and feats—both so sweeping in scope—are deserving of the GOAT (greatest of all time) acronym ought to be carefully weighed.

To some it’s not clear whether Messi landing a World Cup title on Sunday will settle this ‘greatest ever’ debate. Your columnist, however, reckons that not even a win for La Albiceleste on Sunday will sway things in Messi's favour. With all due respect, Pelé and Diego Maradona—in that order—are in their own orbit.

And, from the looks of it, will be for a pretty long time.
The feats both legends pulled off will quite honestly take a beating. Pelé in particular was such a colossus.

The first of his three world titles arrived in 1958 after the Brazilian—aged just 17–scored a hat-trick in the semifinal and a brace in the final for good measure. Pelé was not just a scorer of goals, but also a cerebral presence as his involvement in 53 percent of the 19 goals Seleção Canarinho scored en route to winning the 1970 World Cup title showed.

Elsewhere, the superlatives used to describe what Maradona produced on the pitch were richly merited. The 1986 World Cup feat was stratospheric in every sense of the word not least because Maradona pulled it off with an Argentina side shorn of star dust.

It's highly unlikely that a win for Messi on Sunday will be adequate to topple Maradona in the pantheon of the all-time greats.

Whatever the outcome (and it should not be forgotten that La Albiceleste comes up against a talented Les Bleus side, with Kylian Mbappé keen to stamp his mark), nothing should be taken away from Messi. What he has achieved on the international scene has been nothing short of extraordinary.

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Content: Did Lionel Messi Go To College?

News

Did Lionel Messi Go To College?

In the world of professional sports, it is not uncommon for athletes to forgo higher education in pursuit of their dreams. Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, is no exception. Born and raised in Rosario, Argentina, Messi’s journey to stardom began at a young age, and his dedication to the sport led him down a different path than that of a traditional college education.

Early Life and Football Career
Messi’s passion for football was evident from a young age. At just six years old, he joined the youth team of his local club, Newell’s Old Boys. His exceptional skills quickly caught the attention of scouts, and at the age of 13, he moved to Barcelona, Spain, to join the prestigious La Masia academy. It was here that Messi’s talent flourished, and he rapidly rose through the ranks to become a key player for FC Barcelona.

Education and College
While Messi’s focus was primarily on his football career, he did receive a basic education during his time in Argentina. Like many young athletes, his commitment to training and matches left little time for formal education. However, it is important to note that in Argentina, primary and secondary education is compulsory, ensuring that Messi received a foundational education.

FAQ

1. Did Lionel Messi attend university?
No, Messi did not attend university. His dedication to football led him to pursue a professional career at a young age.

2. Did Messi complete high school?
While Messi did not complete high school in the traditional sense, he did receive a basic education in Argentina, as primary and secondary education is compulsory.

3. Does Messi regret not going to college?
There is no public information to suggest that Messi regrets not pursuing a college education. His incredible success in football speaks for itself.

In conclusion, Lionel Messi did not attend college. His exceptional talent and early dedication to football propelled him to the heights of the sport, leaving little room for a traditional college education. Nevertheless, Messi’s achievements on the field continue to inspire millions around the world, proving that success can be achieved through passion, hard work, and talent.

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Content: Are Roger Federer and Lionel Messi Similar? Rafael Nadal Ridicules Comparisons

Atharva Upasani
|Published September 18, 2023

In an old interview via the Rafael Nadal Fans page on YouTube, tennis great Rafael Nadal was asked about the comparisons between his rival, Roger Federer and soccer superstar, Lionel Messi. Nadal rubbished them categorically with an answer which sounds good objectively, but polarised opinion in the sports world. It also must have perhaps come from a place of Rafael Nadal preferring Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi.

The comparisons have gained significance again recently after Federer took to TIME Magazine to pen a heartfelt tribute to Leo Messi. Federer’s words, laden with praise, resonated with sports enthusiasts across the globe. In his tribute, Federer highlighted the profound impact Messi has had on soccer given the huge burden of expectations on his shoulder each time he enters the pitch.

Rafael Nadal on not believing in Federer-Messi comparisons

Rafael Nadal and Cristiano Ronaldo have often been considered similar in the sense of their relentlessness and ability to dig deep in adversity even if it means not looking great while doing it. Their graft and hard work is evident and visible. On the other hand, Roger Federer and Lionel Messi are often compared for their elegance and effortless ease, making their sports look way more easier to play than they actually are.

But Rafael Nadal was quick to brush off any such suggestions in an interview with Marca. He was quoted as saying –

“There is no comparison possible. They are two completely different sports and the characteristics of Messi are not those of Federer nor those of Cristiano are mine.

In fact, this year, Rafael Nadal had reiterated that he still prefers Cristiano Ronaldo over Lionel Messi. His views angered Lionel Messi fans, who in turn called Roger Federer better than him.

Roger Federer pays touching tribute to Lionel Messi

In his touching tribute to the Argentine soccer superstar, Roger Federer, who knows a thing or two about winning, acknowledged his longevity and consistency. Messi has been dominating world soccer for well over 15 years now and has multiple Ballon D’or trophies to show for it. Federer hailed Messi’s ability to carry the hopes of an entire nation on his shoulder for so many years and still deliver clutch performances.

“What stands out to me about Messi, 35, is his consistent greatness over so many years. This is so difficult to achieve, and then maintain. My career has just come to an end and I have now realize how much weight we athletes carry. For a football player like Messi, that weight likely feels more massive, as he represents both a world-renowned club and a very passionate country.”

Federer also touched upon Argentina’s World Cup victory, describing it as a magnificent moment in sports history, witnessed by millions as jubilant fans took to the streets of Buenos Aires to celebrate. The Swiss legend then reminisced about his own sources of inspiration from Argentine soccer, citing Diego Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta as his childhood favorites. Now, he believes that Messi can inspire future generations, much as Maradona and Batistuta had inspired him.

“Argentina’s World Cup victory was magnificent. Millions of fans’ taking to the streets of Buenos Aires to celebrate was an amazing moment in sports, witnessed around the world. Growing up, Diego Maradona and Gabriel Batistuta were my favorite Argentine players. I was lucky enough to meet both of them. Now Messi can inspire future generations. I can only hope we get to see his unique creativity and artistry for a little bit longer. You may miss something incredible from the man of the moment. Thank you, Leo.”

Currently, Lionel Messi is plying his trade in Major League Soccer (MLS) with Inter Miami, a move that garnered significant attention and shifted the soccer landscape in America to greater heights.

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About the author

Atharva Upasani

A creative story teller with attention to detail and experience of working in sports industry, Atharva has over 3 years of experience in content writing. Being a Rafael Nadal fan himself, Atharva has included Rafas' work ethic and winning mentality in various aspects of his life. Atharva has completed his masters in sports journalism from Sheffield Hallam University and has expertise in tennis as well as other sports.

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Content: What Was Lionel Messi Known For?

News

What Was Lionel Messi Known For?

Lionel Messi, the Argentine football superstar, is widely regarded as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport. Known for his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring ability, Messi has left an indelible mark on the world of football. From his early days at FC Barcelona to his international success with the Argentine national team, Messi’s career has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Early Career and Rise to Prominence
Born on June 24, 1987, in Rosario, Argentina, Messi showed immense talent from a young age. He joined the Barcelona youth academy, La Masia, at the age of 13, where he honed his skills and developed his unique playing style. Messi made his first-team debut for Barcelona in 2004, at the age of 17, and quickly became a key player for the club.

Playing Style and Skills
Messi is known for his exceptional dribbling ability, close ball control, and lightning-fast speed. His low center of gravity allows him to change direction quickly, leaving defenders in his wake. His vision and passing accuracy are also remarkable, enabling him to create scoring opportunities for his teammates. However, it is his goal-scoring prowess that truly sets him apart. Messi has an incredible ability to find the back of the net, often with stunning precision and creativity.

Records and Achievements
Throughout his career, Messi has shattered numerous records and achieved countless milestones. He has won numerous individual awards, including the prestigious FIFA Ballon d’Or, which he has claimed a record-breaking seven times. Messi has also led Barcelona to numerous domestic and international titles, including ten La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League titles.

FAQ

Q: What is Messi’s playing position?
A: Messi primarily plays as a forward or attacking midfielder, but his versatility allows him to excel in various positions on the field.

Q: Has Messi ever won the FIFA World Cup?
A: Despite his immense success at the club level, Messi has yet to win the FIFA World Cup with the Argentine national team. However, he has led Argentina to the finals in 2014 and has won several other international tournaments, including the Copa America.

Q: How many goals has Messi scored in his career?
A: As of 2021, Messi has scored over 700 goals in official matches for both club and country.

In conclusion, Lionel Messi is known for his exceptional skills, agility, and goal-scoring ability. His playing style, records, and achievements have solidified his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Whether it is his mesmerizing dribbles or his ability to find the back of the net, Messi’s impact on the sport will be remembered for generations to come.

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Content: How Tall Is Lionel Messi?

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Lionel Messi: The Height of Greatness

Introduction
Lionel Messi, the Argentine football sensation, has captivated the world with his extraordinary skills and mesmerizing performances on the field. As fans and admirers continue to marvel at his talent, one question that often arises is, “How tall is Lionel Messi?” In this article, we delve into the height of this football icon and provide answers to some frequently asked questions.

How Tall Is Lionel Messi?
Lionel Messi stands at a height of 1.70 meters, which is approximately 5 feet 7 inches. Despite his relatively modest stature compared to some of his towering opponents, Messi has proven time and again that height is no barrier to success in the world of football. His agility, speed, and exceptional ball control have allowed him to outmaneuver and outshine many taller players.

FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does Messi’s height affect his performance on the field?
A: Not at all. Messi’s height has never hindered his ability to dominate matches. In fact, his low center of gravity and quick acceleration give him a significant advantage, enabling him to change direction swiftly and leave defenders in his wake.

Q: How does Messi compare to other footballers in terms of height?
A: While Messi may be shorter than some of his contemporaries, his impact on the game is immeasurable. His exceptional skills and achievements have solidified his place among the greatest footballers of all time, regardless of height.

Q: Are there any advantages to being shorter in football?
A: Absolutely. Being shorter can provide players with enhanced agility, balance, and speed. It allows them to maneuver through tight spaces, maintain better control of the ball, and evade tackles more effectively.

Q: Has Messi’s height ever been a subject of criticism?
A: Occasionally, critics have pointed out Messi’s height as a potential weakness. However, time and again, he has proven them wrong consistently delivering outstanding performances and achieving remarkable success at both the club and international levels.

Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s height may be modest, but his impact on the world of football is immeasurable. Standing at 1.70 meters, he has shattered the notion that height is a determining factor in achieving greatness on the field. Messi’s exceptional skills, determination, and unwavering passion for the game have made him an inspiration to aspiring footballers worldwide, proving that true greatness knows no bounds.

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Content: Lionel Messi, the iconic figure in the world of soccer, has embarked on a new chapter in his illustrious career with Inter Miami in the United States. Beyond his unparalleled prowess on the football pitch, Messi has revealed a newfound interest in American football, shedding light on his diverse sporting passions.

Amidst his tenure at Inter Miami, Messi has captivated the soccer world and garnered attention from various sports enthusiasts. In a recent interview with the Big Time Podcast, Messi disclosed his admiration for various sports, including tennis, padel, basketball, and American football. Expressing his eagerness to learn more about the intricacies of the sport, Messi's embrace of American football underscores his open-mindedness and curiosity beyond his domain of expertise.

Messi's revelation about his interest in American football adds another layer to his multifaceted persona, highlighting his willingness to explore new horizons beyond soccer. As he immerses himself in the intricacies of the sport, Messi's presence at Inter Miami not only elevates the profile of the MLS but also fosters cross-sporting interactions and collaborations.

In his own words, during the Big Time Podcast interview, Messi shared, “Tennis, padel, basketball, and American football. I'm learning a lot about American football, getting to know it better, and loving it.” This statement underscores his genuine enthusiasm for delving into new sporting ventures and his willingness to expand his horizons.

Indeed, Messi's influence transcends the boundaries of soccer, attracting luminaries from other sporting disciplines to Inter Miami matches. Tennis stars Stefanos Tsitsipas and Paula Badosa were among the notable personalities who received personalized Messi shirts during their visits to the club. Similarly, NFL players Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase donned FC Cincinnati shirts to support Messi during his inaugural season in the MLS.

Moreover, Messi's arrival in the United States has ignited unprecedented interest in Inter Miami games, with viewership numbers surpassing the million mark. Such staggering figures place Inter Miami alongside the likes of the NFL and college football in viewership, underscoring Messi's transcendent appeal and global impact.

While Messi recuperates from injury, his imminent return to action for Inter Miami's Champions Cup clash against Monterrey on April 3 is eagerly anticipated. As he continues to mesmerize audiences both on and off the field, Messi's journey with Inter Miami promises to be a captivating fusion of sporting excellence and cultural exchange.

Watch Messi live. Every club, every match, including playoffs. Subscribe now to MLS Season Pass!

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Content: The evolution of Argentina, Messi and Scaloni: From pariahs to heroes

Located in the Buenos Aires Ecological Reserve in Puerto Madero, Paseo de la Gloria (Walk of Glory) is a tourist attraction that was created in Argentina’s capital ahead of hosting the 2018 Youth Olympic Games.

Visitors and locals walk the airy promenade and pay homage to the country’s most accomplished sportsmen and women: heroes of tennis, field hockey, basketball, golf, boxing and horse racing are enshrined in bronze and immortalized, just a stone’s throw from the Rio de la Plata.

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Among the most recognizable statues are those of former NBA great Emanuel Ginobili and tennis icon Gabriela Sabatini. But the most popular statue is that of Lionel Messi.

Created by Argentine sculptor Carlos Benavidez, it captures Messi’s signature running style — the moment when he bursts past an opponent on the dribble.

It was erected in 2016 shortly after the now 35-year-old retired temporarily from Argentina’s national team. A defeat to Germany in the 2014 World Cup final was followed by two consecutive Copa America final losses to Chile in 2015 and 2016.

Both the defeats by Chile were agonising penalty shootouts, including Messi sailing his penalty over the bar at New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium in the 2016 match. Immediately after that game, Messi shocked the world when he announced his retirement from international football.

“It’s incredible, really. It just won’t happen for us,” a downtrodden Messi told reporters from the mixed zone. “Apparently this is how it’s going to be. Today it happened to us again, and again in penalties.”

Asked what was going through his head and whether it was too early to think about CONMEBOL’s World Cup qualifiers for Russia 2018, Messi muttered: “I was thinking about this in the dressing room. That’s it. The national team is over for me. It’s been four finals. Unfortunately, it wasn’t meant to be for me. I couldn’t do it. That’s it.”

Messi had already won five Ballon d’Ors and eight La Liga titles with Barcelona. He had lifted four Champions League trophies and had enormous success in Europe. For over a decade, Messi has been considered the world’s best player, but success in Argentina’s famed No 10 shirt has eluded him.

He was criticized in Argentina for failing to perform for his country when it mattered most. Messi left his boyhood town of Rosario for La Masia in Barcelona at the age of 13 and became a legend in Spain, but that was later used by Argentina fans and pundits to question whether he truly embodied the rugged spirit of an Argentine footballer.

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It was that type of patriotic envy that was debated relentlessly on nightly television programs, in cafes and in the press. Barcelona’s football had finessed his game and softened his mentality, they said, and that was evidenced by the aforementioned finals losses.

Messi was revered around the world, but he had become a polarizing figure in Argentina — a “foreigner” who was crippled by the pressure of representing Argentina and a player who was burdened by the shadow of Diego Maradona.

As a result, Messi’s statue on the Walk of Glory became a frequent target for vandals. The statue’s torso was first stolen and then replaced, only to see it destroyed again in December of 2017.

A man runs past the statue of Lionel Messi after it was vandalized in 2017 (Photo: Mariano Sanchez/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)

Perhaps the thieves wanted a piece of Messi memorabilia for themselves. However, the symbolism that a toppled statue of Messi represented at that time could not be ignored.

Messi and his Argentina team-mates had become pariahs in their own country. Glory had slipped between their fingers far too many times to forgive.

The 2018 World Cup in Russia increased the toxicity around the Argentina national team. Drawn with Croatia, Iceland and Nigeria, they struggled to grasp manager Jorge Sampaoli’s Bielsa-inspired tactics and only narrowly advanced from the group stage.

A 1-1 draw with minnows Iceland was followed by a 3-0 thrashing by Croatia, the eventual runners up. Messi scored his only goal of the tournament against Nigeria to secure a place in the round of 16. They were promptly eliminated 4-3 by France. Sampaoli’s short stint ended less than a month later.

Reports of a rift between Sampaoli and Messi magnified the national team’s debacle in Russia. The general consensus in Argentina was that it was time to move on from a generation of players who had failed to win a title and instead incorporate new players into the national team — players who were unburdened by past failures.

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Captain Javier Mascherano, Gonzalo Higuain, Lucas Biglia, Ever Banega, Marcos Rojo, Enzo Perez, and Gabriel Mercado would not play again for Argentina.

There would also be a new manager tasked with leading Argentina at the 2019 and 2020 Copa America tournaments and the 2022 World Cup qualifiers. The list of potential successors to Sampaoli included Atletico Madrid’s Diego Simeone and former Tottenham Hotspur boss Mauricio Pochettino.

Instead, Sampaoli’s assistant Lionel Scaloni was hired as interim manager. A former Argentina defender who played at the 2006 World Cup, Scaloni coached Argentina’s Under-20 men’s side before joining Sampaoli’s staff. He had two priorities when he accepted the caretaker position.

Lionel Scaloni shortly after taking over as Argentina manager in 2018 (Photo: Marcelo Endelli via Getty Images)

The first was to add Argentina Under-17 national team coach Pablo Aimar to his staff. Aimar is a respected tactician in Argentina and a staunch defender of football that suits creative players. The former Argentina, River Plate and Valencia midfielder was also Messi’s childhood hero. After Aimar accepted the role alongside Scaloni, the two coaches picked up the phone and called Messi.

“After (the World Cup) in Russia, Pablo and I called (Messi) and told him that we would coach the team on an interim basis,” Scaloni told ESPN in September. “Messi was a team captain with Mascherano. It was best that he heard it directly from us.”

Messi’s brief retirement in 2016 still lingered in the consciousness of every Argentinian. From the outside, his commitment to the national team was in question after Argentina crashed out in Russia. And considering the coaching candidates who had been rumored to take over for Sampaoli, Scaloni’s initial appointment underwhelmed Argentina supporters and journalists.

Aimar was joined on Scaloni’s staff by former World Cup veteran defenders Roberto Ayala and Walter Samuel. Yet, their inexperience as coaches overshadowed their careers as elite European-based footballers. Supporters clamored for an evolution of the national team, but when it began in earnest, it was difficult for Argentinians to accept.

Nonetheless, there was a detail that would prove crucial to Argentina’s future success under Scaloni. It wasn’t tactical, although Scaloni would gradually fine-tune Argentina’s style of play with Messi as less of a focal point.

What allowed Messi to feel comfortable again in the Argentina shirt was the fact he and the manager shared a bond. Scaloni had never coached in Argentina before joining the national team.

After playing two seasons in Argentina with Newell’s Old Boys and Estudiantes de la Plata in the late 1990s, Scaloni left for Europe and didn’t return as a player. He played for Deportivo La Coruna, Lazio, West Ham United, Racing Santander and briefly for Atalanta. Scaloni maintains a residence in Mallorca and he was an assistant under Sampaoli at Sevilla.

Scaloni wasn’t “made in Argentina” and that was criticized by traditionalists. But that commonality with Messi has strengthened their relationship. Messi is more comfortable than he has ever been in Argentina’s blue and white, due in large part to Scaloni and the players the manager has chosen as Messi’s supporting cast.

“When we took over officially, (Messi) told us that he’d come back, that he was committed and that if we called him, he’d play,” Scaloni said. “It was very natural. He shows a love for the national team which is evident when you see him play. The will to win for him is because of what he shows us on the pitch.”

Argentina lost 2-0 to hosts Brazil in the semi-final of the 2019 Copa America. They had started the tournament poorly with a 2-0 loss to Colombia which sounded the alarms in Argentina, as Scaloni’s tactics looked like a work in progress.

The side was experienced but Scaloni incorporated younger players like Lautaro Martinez, Rodrigo De Paul, Leandro Paredes and Giovani Lo Celso. The holdovers from the 2018 World Cup team included Sergio Aguero, Angel Di Maria, Messi, Nicolas Otamendi and goalkeeper Franco Armani. Scaloni was beginning to build a core group.

He would need to impress in friendlies versus Chile, Mexico and Germany that same year. Argentina drew 0-0 and 2-2 with Chile and Germany, respectively, then routed Mexico 4-0. There was a workman-like identity to this new-look Argentina. There were persistent calls from pundits for Scaloni to be innovative with his tactics. Nevertheless, confidence and camaraderie were growing within the group.

Scaloni and the players had their sights on a chance to end the national team’s 28-year trophy drought. Argentina were set to co-host the 2020 Copa America with Colombia, which would have been a first for South American football.

That historic milestone never occurred. COVID-19 concerns in Argentina plus political unrest in Colombia forced CONMEBOL to strip the countries of hosting duties, postpone the tournament a year, and move it to Brazil.

The apprehension regarding Scaloni’s inexperience persisted as the tournament began, but the side showed a steely mentality and grew as the competition progressed. Messi was in inspired form, but new stars began to emerge.

Martinez looked the part as an elite No 9. De Paul became the axis in Argentina’s midfield with clean distribution and tireless running. Central defenders Cristian Romero and Otamendi provided a solid defensive wall in front of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who became a hero after he saved three penalties in an emotional semi-final shootout win over Colombia.

Argentina’s dream was alive, but Brazil had looked like a juggernaut in the group stage and knockout rounds. It seemed more likely that history would repeat itself at the Maracana, the same venue where Germany defeated Argentina in the World Cup final in 2014. A fifth consecutive finals loss for Messi would further damage his reputation at the international level.

The tables turned, however, as Argentina earned a hard-fought 1-0 win that shocked the Brazilians.

Lionel Messi celebrates winning the Copa America against Brazil in 2021 (Photo: Gustavo Pagano via Getty Images)

Messi had finally won the title that he so desperately needed, and desired. An elated Messi told reporters after the match that he had dreamed of this moment, and that for years, his family had suffered each loss alongside him. The family’s summer holidays began with a melancholy mood. “This time it’ll be different,” he said.

And it was different. The streets of Buenos Aires erupted with joy. The entire country embraced Scaloni, and his previously unproven group of players, as national treasures. Argentina’s first cup win since 1993 was hailed as an improbable feat against unprecedented odds.

“We’re still not conscious of the fact that we’re champions, of what we’ve just accomplished,” Messi told reporters from the Maracana. “But I think that this match will be remembered as something historic, not only because we became South American champions, but because we beat Brazil in Brazil.”

During that celebratory moment, Messi urged his team-mates and the country to take advantage of the momentum that had been created. This was the future of the national team, Messi said, which felt like a preemptive passing of the torch. The high of winning a Copa America carried through during the South American World Cup qualifiers as they cruised undefeated towards Qatar.

The sentiment towards the national team had officially changed.

“The support from the fans makes you feel more comfortable on the pitch,” Aguero told TyC Sports from Doha days before the World Cup draw in April. “Before we won the Copa America, when I played, (fans) were virtually silent during our matches. Now it’s like a party. A player falls down and everybody starts laughing.”

Argentina’s home qualifiers had the energy of a rock concert. Messi was the front man whose skills, goals and assists delighted the thousands of singing fans. Argentina had fallen back in love with him and their national team.

After Argentina sealed their World Cup qualification on March 25 with a 3-0 win over Venezuela, the sellout crowd at Boca Juniors’ Estadio La Bombonera stayed long after the final whistle to honor the players and staff that would compete for the ultimate prize in Qatar.

Amid blaring trumpets and chanting fans, Messi spoke about the magnitude of the moment and his own transformation.

“Lately here in Argentina, this is what we expected. We wouldn’t expect anything less from the fans,” said Messi from the pitch. “It’s been this way over this period of time, the unity between the national team and our people.”

Messi continued.

“I’ve been happy here even before we won the Copa (America). We have a wonderful group and the fans continue to show how much they care about me. I’m grateful. I experience it every time I come to Argentina, and more so after winning that trophy.”

During the September FIFA window, Argentina played before screaming fans in Miami and New Jersey in wins over Honduras and Jamaica. They were friendly matches, but the energy inside both stadiums, like in Buenos Aires during World Cup qualifying, made the players feel like rock stars. “We’re so happy with the connection that we have with our fans,” said De Paul from Miami.

Argentina’s last loss was that 2019 Copa America semi-final against Brazil. They’ll begin the World Cup in Group C against Saudi Arabia riding a 36-game unbeaten streak. Scaloni went from unsung interim manager to a pop culture star in Argentina. Fans on social media created a nickname, La Scaloneta, which is best described as an unstoppable hype train that’s destined for glory.

La Scaloneta has become such a big part of Argentina’s recent sporting culture, that fans often refer to the manager by his nickname. Scaloni isn’t keen about his newfound fame, but it’s unavoidable at this point.

In November several fans spotted the manager at Buenos Aires’ Ezeiza International Airport and shouted “Scaloneta!” as they took selfies with him. A smiling Scaloni told a nearby reporter, “I’m Scaloni. I don’t like it, but there’s no turning back.”

Four years ago in Russia, Argentina’s national team was at a point of no return. Messi’s legacy was in jeopardy and winning a World Cup seemed impossible for him. Now, Argentina are among the favorites to win the World Cup in Qatar.

And after years of disappointment and destructive criticism, the team is beloved again. But even deeply rooted love can be broken. The world will soon find out if Argentina’s storybook rise will have a feelgood ending.

(Top photo: Gustavo Pagano via Getty Images)

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Felipe Cardenas is a staff writer for The Athletic who covers MLS, the Mexican National Team, media and international soccer. Follow Felipe on Twitter @FelipeCar

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This is Messi's chance to win Argentina fans over

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Has there been anyone better who has laced up the boots and kicked a football like Lionel Messi in the history of the game?

There are many greats who are part of that discussion, but there is plenty of time to debate that.

What is certain though is that Messi will always be involved in the conversation, due to the incredible legacy he will eventually leave behind.

Developing through the ranks at Barcelona, the 35-year-old has contributed towards 35 trophies for the Spanish giants and created jaw-dropping performances that were not only impressive but also consistent.

However, the same legacy cannot be translated to his playing time so far with Argentina.

The boy who grew up in Rosario was always touted as the next big thing to happen to Argentinian football since Diego Maradona who fans consider a legend and a god.

Maradona was the catalyst in carrying his nation to their only two World Cup triumphs in 1978 and 1986 with the elegance and touch that players can only dream about.

(Photo by Etsuo Hara/Getty Images)

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What captured Argentinian hearts the most though was his dedication, leadership, and passion that Maradona always demonstrated when wearing the blue and white stripes.

Who can ever forget his stare-down of the England squad while lining up for the national anthems at the 86’ World Cup quarter-final?

The anger and resentment were due to the Falklands War four years earlier between the two countries which tragically resulted in the death of 650 Argentine military personnel.

As far as diehard passion and devotion go for the game of football, it is difficult to look past supporters of Argentina who live and breathe it as a religion and remember moments such as that from Maradona.

Messi, on the other hand, has often been criticised for lacking those sorts of leadership qualities on the pitch while also being accused by some of not showing full commitment and effort to Argentina compared to club football.

The humiliating 3-0 defeat to Croatia at the 2018 World Cup is an example highlighting Messi strutting along the field and not seeming to take responsibility and push his team.

Were the signs there right from the beginning?

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Messi was sensationally sent off on his international debut, which paved the way for a poor beginning to his chapter.

In his first four finals for Argentina, he managed to lose all four, including three in the Copa America and one World Cup final.

“He is a loser. He doesn’t have the balls.”

“He is lazy. He is a lie.”

Those are just a couple of comments from supporters making their feelings truly known that they were nowhere near satisfied with his performances.

Especially the 2014 World Cup final against Germany, where he had the golden opportunity to carry his nation on his shoulders just like Maradona did all those years ago to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

A mission failed miserably in taking the game by the scruff of the neck.

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Despite winning the award for player of the tournament, no one in Argentina was celebrating it.

In saying that, he doesn’t deserve a lot of the abuse and negative comments that have been directed toward him for so many years.

The biggest problem is that Messi has produced ridiculous moments of magic so consistently that the expectations placed on his shoulders are not so feasible.

It is part of the reason why he called time on his international career back in 2016 when he lost the Copa America final to Chile.

Simply put, the Argentine squads assembled in years gone past with Messi in it have not been good enough as a collective, but rather a team plugged with talented individuals supported by inept coaches and federations.

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There is no doubt that Messi had the support crew around him to achieve what he did at Barca, but that same environment was not able to be implemented for Argentina.

(Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

It wasn’t his fault that Gonzalo Higuain missed golden chances or that the rest of the squad failed to convert from the spot in penalty shootouts.

What’s different to this current squad competing in Qatar in comparison to previous sides?

This is still a group that has talent all over the pitch, but the big difference is the attractive football they are playing which is due to being connected more as a unified squad.

Angel Di Maria, Paulo Dybala, Lautaro Martinez, Julian Alvarez, and Rodrigo De Paul along with Messi provide the spark up front that will make any opponent shake with fear.

Argentina comfortably qualified from South America and are currently on an unbelievable 36-match unbeaten streak.

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Last year, they unexpectedly defeated Brazil in their own backyard to win the Copa America and hand Messi his first international trophy, ending a 28-year silverware drought for the country.

The defensive aspect is still a concern with the lack of pace, but there is a newfound grit about Argentina that can propel them to glory this time around.

The conditions in Qatar will provide an advantage for the two-time world champions, but it will ultimately be Lionel Messi who will have the final say in determining whether he can finally call himself a world champion.

In doing so, those passionate and emotional Argentine supporters will turn their hatred into love for their chosen one.

46 million Argentinians will be praying endlessly that Messi can end his international career in the best way possible.

This is his time.

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NPR podcast tells the story behind Lionel Messi's journey to his final World Cup

A MARTÍNEZ, HOST:

When soccer's World Cup kicks off, one of the sport's biggest stars will have his last chance to win a title that has so far eluded him. Lionel Messi is often spoken of as perhaps the game's greatest player ever, but he's never lifted the famous gold trophy for his country, Argentina. It is a constant source of criticism for the man nicknamed La Pulga Atomico, the atomic flea, due to his small stature and the way he buzzes past defenders. His determination to swat aside those complaints might be all the greater when you consider that the 35-year-old's identity as an Argentino has been questioned because he left the country as a teenager to begin his ascent to stardom in Spain. That's the inspiration behind the new NPR podcast La última copa - The Last Cup - which is out now, hosted by Jasmine Garsd.

All right. So, Jasmine, what made you want to make this podcast about Messi and this journey to his final World Cup?

JASMINE GARSD, BYLINE: Well, you know, like Lionel Messi, I am from Argentina, and I'm very soccer obsessed. Soccer was a part of my life growing up. And I became just really fascinated with his relationship with his home country. And even though, you know, Lionel Messi is a huge superstar, there were some themes in his personal story that I definitely identified. There were echoes of things I had heard people in other immigrant communities talk about. It was, like, this story about someone who leaves home really young, spends a lot of their life wondering what could have happened, yearning, you know, in the nostalgia, wondering if you can ever go back and then navigating that relationship when you do go back, which is very complicated.

MARTÍNEZ: Well, now, you wanted to make this podcast about Messi in both English and Spanish. Why was that important to you?

GARSD: You know, I had been thinking a lot about Lionel Messi. And I got into an Uber, and it was a Dominican driver, and he started talking to me in Espanol, and he started telling me about how he was getting older, and people back home wanted him to come back, but his life was here in New York. And as he was telling me this, I was like, whoa, I should do this story. You know, there's, like, a common element. There's a common theme. And every time I would hear this story, it would be in Espanol. And so I just - we really wanted to do it justice by telling it in both languages.

MARTÍNEZ: Now, the first three episodes are already out. So let's get a flavor from Episode 1.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #1: Lionel Messi - no, no, no. No, no, no. It's got away. It's got away.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED NPR BROADCAST)

UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #1: The greatest achievement you can have as a footballer is winning international trophies for your country. It just is a bigger legend than winning Champions League.

GARSD: The one thing Messi has never been able to achieve is to win a World Cup for his home country, Argentina.

(SOUNDBITE OF MONTAGE)

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #2: He's missed it. It's been saved.

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #3: But there was a target area, and Messi misplaced it.

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #4: Messi, even now he can't get his goal.

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #5: And he doesn't pick up the prize he really wanted.

GARSD: For most of his career, when Leo Messi put on that Argentina soccer jersey, things got really bad really quick.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #6: He missed it.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #7: ...Lionel Messi put his shirt over his face. He's now crouched down with his head on the field.

UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #2: (Through interpreter) He was sitting on the floor, curled up in a ball, shaking, crying inconsolably.

(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)

GARSD: Over the years, every time I would watch Messi play a big game for Argentina, I'd get really anxious, not just because I'm also from Argentina, and I hated watching our team lose; it was a personal anxiety about what I knew happened after every game. A lot of people back home would get angry at him.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #3: (Speaking Spanish).

GARSD: His critics would say that he only cared enough to play well for the European clubs, that he'd left Argentina too young, and now he was no longer Argentine.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED PERSON #4: (Speaking Spanish).

GARSD: And the reason this rhetoric filled me with dread is that I too had to leave Argentina when I was a teenager, and it wasn't really by choice.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED REPORTER: The national crisis has seen protesters taking to the streets, angry at the government's inability to end what is now three years of recession.

(SOUNDBITE OF PROTEST)

GARSD: As happens to many immigrants, as time passed I would feel further and further away from home, and I was haunted by questions like, can I ever go back? If I do, will I be a foreigner in my own country?

(SOUNDBITE OF MUSIC)

GARSD: I know some people are going to say, Jasmine, chill out. Messi is an international superstar. He's got a great life. He's very wealthy. Don't try and make me feel bad for him. But one of the reasons I love soccer is because it's about so much more than a ball on a field with 22 players. And in this podcast, we're going to talk a lot about how soccer is a way to understand the world - class, race, immigration, colonialism.

MARTÍNEZ: That's an excerpt from Episode 1 of the new NPR podcast La última copa - The Last Cup - and host Jasmine Garsd is still with us. Now, Jasmine, Messi has been voted the best player in the world a number of times. He's rewritten soccer's history books. But Diego Maradona is a god because in 1986, he pretty much single-handedly led Argentina to World Cup glory.

(SOUNDBITE OF ARCHIVED RECORDING)

UNIDENTIFIED SPORTSCASTER #8: ...Maradona. They're appealing for offside. The ball came back off the foot of Steve Hodge. And Maradona gives Argentina the lead.

MARTÍNEZ: So, Jasmine, if Lionel Messi never lifts the cup over his head, where will he rank in (speaking Spanish) - in the hearts of your countrymen?

GARSD: (Laughter) I think he's come around to being very beloved, and people have, like, a certain kind of, like, tenderness for him because they understand what he went through. I think the Diego Maradona represents something completely different to Argentina. I mean, he's this kid from the slums who, like, was really on the outskirts of society in terms of class and race, and he overcame all kinds of challenges to become this hero. But I do think that, you know, Leo Messi has come around and that people have finally started to embrace him. Yeah?

MARTÍNEZ: But if he never wins a cup, will he be as beloved?

GARSD: Don't say that, A. Don't invoke it.

(LAUGHTER)

MARTÍNEZ: I know. I know. We'll see. His last chance is coming up. Jasmine Garsd is the host La última copa - The Last Cup - out now wherever you get your podcasts. Jasmine, thanks a lot.

GARSD: Thank you so much. This was fun. Transcript provided by NPR, Copyright NPR.

A Martínez
A Martínez is one of the hosts of Morning Edition and Up First. He came to NPR in 2021 and is based out of NPR West.
Jasmine Garsd
Jasmine Garsd is an Argentine-American journalist living in New York. She is currently NPR's Criminal Justice correspondent and the host of The Last Cup. She started her career as the co-host of Alt.Latino, an NPR show about Latin music. Throughout her reporting career she's focused extensively on women's issues and immigrant communities in America. She's currently writing a book of stories about women she's met throughout her travels.

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