After Argentina's friendly match against Mauritania at La Bombonera stadium, several Mauritanian national team players gathered outside the home team's locker room. Two players were seen vying for a jersey, choosing between one belonging to Lionel Messi and another from Argentine star Rodrigo De Paul. Players from both teams had already exchanged jerseys on the field earlier.
This scene underscored Messi's immense influence and the deep respect the Mauritanian national team holds for the world champion, as noted by Marca.
Mauritanian players vied for jerseys, choosing between Messi's and De Paul's, after the friendly match on 27/3.
Argentina defeated Mauritania, ranked 115th in the FIFA standings, by a score of 2-1. Enzo Fernandez and Nico Paz scored for the home team in the first half. Jordan Lefort scored one goal for Mauritania in the 90+3 minute.
Messi entered the game at the start of the second half but made no significant impact. He missed a good opportunity to extend his record of 115 goals for Argentina.
Fans currently remain uncertain about Messi's potential participation in the World Cup next June. The forward, who will soon turn 39, has stated several times he is unsure if he will be there.
When asked about Messi's World Cup plans, coach Lionel Scaloni replied: "That is a question for Messi. As for me, you know. I will do everything possible to ensure he is present. I believe that for the good of football, he must be there. Not just Argentinians, but all fans want him there. But ultimately, the decision is not entirely mine. It depends on his choice, his mental state, and his physical condition. Any decision he makes will be best for the national team and for himself. I hope he will be there."
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Messi dribbles during the Argentina 2-1 Mauritania friendly match on 27/3. *Photo: Reuters*
Messi has participated in World Cups in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022. He achieved his goal by winning the title in 2022. The Argentine captain also won two World Cup Best Player awards in 2014 and 2022.
On 31/3, Argentina will continue their friendly matches against Zambia. In the 2026 World Cup, the reigning champions are in Group J alongside Algeria, Austria, and Jordan.
By Thanh Quy (via Marca)
