Lionel Scaloni on Messi: "He is pure history" before the World Cup final
By Sports.
Background
Lionel Messi has a rich World Cup history as Argentina's captain, and his presence in the final against Spain could be crucial to the team's success. His experience in big matches, combined with his skills, make him one of the most important players in the history of football, which is also emphasized by his role in the team led by Lionel Scaloni.
Why is it important
Lionel Scaloni emphasizes the importance of Lionel Messi as a key player on Argentina's path to the 2026 World Cup final. His experience and skills are invaluable, especially in the context of the team's exciting performances that led to the clash with Spain. This final will not only decide the title, but also the future of Argentine football, in which Messi plays a central role.
Key points
- Lionel Scaloni on Messi: "He is pure history" before the World Cup final.
- Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni pays tribute to Lionel Messi ahead of the World Cup final against Spain, highlighting the team's turbulent journey to this point and the importance of Messi's legacy.
- ‘He is pure history’: Scaloni pays tribute to Messi before World Cup final - Yahoo Sports.
On Friday in New York, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni, captain Lionel Messi and goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martinez met with the media ahead of the second consecutive World Cup final in which they will take part. Few expected Argentina, built on an aging core and led by a 39-year-old talisman, to make it this far. However, the team managed to put together a series of thrilling and chaotic performances, culminating in a memorable and unexpected semi-final victory over England to face Spain on Sunday.
Spain, unlike Argentina, presents a style of play based on possession of the ball and a well-organized defense, which makes them a team without any element of chaos. For Argentina, whose path to the final was full of emotions, meeting an opponent as organized as Spain is a huge challenge. "If Spain leaves the hotel, I'm already worried," admitted Scaloni. "When they get on the bus and leave the hotel, I'm concerned. They're a great team. Everything about them worries me."
Argentina is the defending World Champion, while Spain last won in 2010. While Spain doesn't have players with finals experience, Argentina has plenty of them. However, Scaloni does not believe that this experience gives his team an advantage over Spain, which also has players experienced in big arenas.
“They also have players who have performed on global stages,” Scaloni said. "And they are the top players in their teams. Once the ball starts rolling, the players forget about the pressure and focus on the game. They have played in the Euro and Nations League finals. They have a lot of experience. I don't think being in the final will work in our favor."
Argentina, although still the dominant force, did not face the same expectations as Spain, England or France, who were favorites for the final. Argentina's route to the final was chaotic and emotional, but at the same time carefree, as Scaloni, Martinez and Messi emphasized on Friday. “The best thing we have is that we grew up in difficult places playing football,” Scaloni said. "Playing football without thinking about what others are saying. The pressure stays aside, it's not worth worrying about... [On Sunday we have to] do what we have been doing from the beginning, just play and not think about what might happen."
Messi added: "We grew up playing football with a lot of passion and desire, all the time, everywhere - at school, on the street, playing with small teams in our neighborhoods. We never thought about the pressure. It was always natural, the act of playing, of competing. It's a team sport, the opponent is always playing too and you can't always win. But I learned from a young age that you lose more than you win. This made me learn a lot as a person and a player."
Win or lose, Sunday could be Messi's last game in an Argentina shirt. Martinez and Scaloni were asked about his legacy and how he must feel at this point. Scaloni dismissed the journalist's question - "Ask Leo," he said - before admitting the importance of this final. “He is pure history,” Scaloni said. "A legend. Reaching the final at the age of 39 is amazing. We have to enjoy him while he is with us. We miss Diego [Maradona]. But Messi is still with us. He is history, a legend, and together with this group of people who gave us these great years, we will always remember him."
What next
On Sunday, Argentina will face Spain in the World Cup final, which poses a huge challenge for Scaloni's team. Spain's style of play, based on possession and solid defense, will contrast with Argentina's chaotic approach. The result of this match could have far-reaching consequences for both teams, and especially for Messi's future in international football.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Lionel Scaloni say before the World Cup final?
Lionel Scaloni admitted that he is concerned about the organization of Spain's game and that they are a great team.
Who attended the press conference before the World Cup final?
The press conference was attended by coach Lionel Scaloni, captain Lionel Messi and goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez.
Why Argentina is a surprise in the World Cup final
and?
Argentina, built on an aging core, reached the final despite low expectations, achieving a thrilling semi-final victory over England.
What are the differences in the playing style of Argentina and Spain?
Argentina displays a chaotic style of play, while Spain plays based on possession and a well-organized defense.
What experience do Argentina's players have compared to Spain?
Argentina have a number of players with finals experience, but Scaloni doesn't think that gives them an advantage over Spain, who also have experienced players.
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