Argentina’s star, Lionel Messi, has reflected on the difficulties of defending the World Cup title and the pressure that comes with this challenge.
“I believe we have a very strong team and we will try to win the World Cup again. But in this competition, even the smallest moments can eliminate you,” Messi initially said. He emphasized that in the World Cup every detail matters—from a shot that hits the post to penalty kicks that can change the fate of a match.
“Even though we won on penalties in the 2022 final, against the Netherlands and France we were the better team, yet both matches ended in penalty shootouts. Emiliano Martinez was decisive, but a penalty series can punish you at any moment.” Messi added that the 2022 triumph lifted a huge weight off the team’s shoulders, allowing them to play more freely, though it still doesn’t guarantee success.
“It is extremely difficult to win a World Cup. Nevertheless, I am convinced of our team’s determination. Now we play without the burden of what we lacked for years, but that doesn’t mean victory comes easily. Everyone wants to beat the world champions,” the Argentine star concluded.
