Lionel Messi Will Retire from World Cup
- AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko
VIVA – Captain of the Argentina national team, Lionel Messi has confirmed that the 2022 World Cup final will be his last match at the quadrennial tournament. He will not appear at the 2026 World Cup.
Previously, Argentina defeated Croatia with a score of 3-0 at Lusail Stadium, on Wednesday, December 14, 2022. In the match, Lionel Messi scored one goal and Julian Alvarez scored two goals.
La Pulga has confirmed directly about his absence at the upcoming 2026 World Cup. Therefore, he wants to close it sweetly by becoming a champion.
"I am proud to be able to end my World Cup journey by appearing in the final. What I experienced was incredible. But, of course, the match on Sunday will be my last match at the World Cup," Lionel Messi stated as quoted from Marca.
"There are still a few years before the next World Cup (2026). But I don't think I can continue. So, I hope I can end it in the best way," added Messi.
Argentina is confirmed will play against the national team of France in the 2022 World Cup final. The match will be held at Lusail Stadium, Sunday, December 18, 2022.