Messi looks unrecognisable in first World Cup game as he prepares for final
It seems like it was only yesterday when the world was introduced to Lionel Messi.
The little magician was given his World Cup debut in Argentina’s storming 6-0 victory over Serbia and Montenegro in the summer of 2006. He certainly made the most of it, contributing a wonderful assist and an even better goal during a pulsating 15-minute cameo.
At the time, there were murmurs of a young Argentine phenomenon who was staking his claim at Barcelona, yet there was little opportunity for anybody outside the Catalan and La Liga circle to really lay their eyes on him. Sixteen years later, Messi, as the captain of the South American giants, will lead his country into his second World Cup Final – Daily Star Sport looks back at his thrilling debut.
Read More: Fans warn Lionel Messi he 'faces PSG sack from Kylian Mbappe' if Argentina beat France
The setting is the Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen, Germany and Argentina need a victory to guarantee progress into the Round of 16. That was almost assured after six minutes when former Liverpool winger Maxi Rodriguez – then of Atletico Madrid – finished off a wonderful team goal.
Esteban Cambiasso then slotted another one of the great World Cup goals when he added the final touch to a passing move that spanned 24 passes. Rodriguez contributed his second of the afternoon on the stroke of half-time to solidify the result.
What is your favourite memory of Lionel Messi? Let us know in the comments section below
However, Messi’s introduction jolted Argentina back into life as he instantly got to work on terrifying the Serbia defence. They would not have been pleased by the almost nostalgic sight of Messi, slightly hunched over, zipping past defender after defender with his long black hair blowing in the summer breeze.
Just like Croatia defender Josko Gvardiol on Tuesday night, no one was able to tackle him as he dinked, ducked, and dodged his way past the helpless Serbia and Montenegro defence. However, he contributed the first of his 19 goals and assists by finding Hernan Crespo at the back post with a perfect low cross.
Ten minutes later, he was able to turn goalscorer, as Carlos Tevez threaded a pass in behind for Messi to squeeze under the goalkeeper. Ever since that iconic day on Friday, June 16, Messi has since helped himself to 11 goals and eight assists in 25 World Cup appearances.
On Sunday, December 18, a shorter haired, tattooed, and bearded Messi has the opportunity to finally win the World Cup in what will be his final appearance in the competition. Only France stands between him and, if he does not have one already, a place alongside Diego Maradona in the annals of Argentine and football folklore.
Read Next:
Wayne Rooney insists 'nothing's changed' in his view of Lionel Messi 10 years on
World Cup Golden Boot winner told 'zombified' ex-wife to 'go to hell' over Ukraine war
Boy killed after being 'violently hit by car' during riots between France and Morocco fans
Source: Read Full Article