35-year-old talismanic forward Lionel Messi etched his name in the history books when he lifted the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Playing against defending champions France in the finals at the Lusail Stadium, Lionel Messi put up a remarkable performance and netted 2 goals (excluding penalties) to power his side to a close victory in what was a tightly-contested final.
The high-voltage final between Argentina and France went right down to the wire and Argentina held their nerves to win the game 4-2 in the penalties. Lionel Messi netted a brace in the game and finished the tournament with 7 goals and 3 assists up his name. The PSG striker also bagged the “Golden Ball” award, which is given to the best player in the tournament. Messi also won this award in the FIFA World Cup 2014 in Brazil.
When Lionel Messi went to his birthplace Rosario, thousands of fans went to meet him. However, considering his humongous popularity and fan following, it was impossible for him to meet everybody. Thus, the talented striker issued an apology to the fans of his birthplace.
“Well, we wanted to send our greetings to all the people of Funes, Rosario in general. We would like to thank you for the love you have always shown us, especially now this time when I have just arrived back from the World Cup. Forgive us as well because sometimes it is difficult to see everyone, we are with family and friends for a few days and sometimes it is complicated,” Lionel Messi was quoted by DailyMail.
Argentina lifted their 3rd FIFA World Cup title and the first one since 1986. The other FIFA World Cup won by the La Albieceleste was way back in 1978. Lionel Messi also made the most number of FIFA World Cup appearances (26) after the final against France.
Also read: 3 Reasons Why Lionel Messi Might Win His 8th Ballon D’or In 2023
