Argentina plays Venezuela at 6:30 AM Hanoi time on Friday, 9/5.
The 46-year-old coach reminisced about playing alongside Messi since 2005, when Messi debuted for the national team against Hungary. "Being Messi's teammate was amazing," he said. "Then, to be at the World Cup with him, and to win it together, is truly indescribable. I've never seen anyone create the effect Messi does when he steps onto the pitch. I'm always happy to work with him."
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Coach Lionel Scaloni embraces Messi after the World Cup quarter-final against the Netherlands at Lusail Stadium, Qatar on the evening of 12/9/2022. Photo: AP |
Coach Lionel Scaloni embraces Messi after the World Cup quarter-final against the Netherlands at Lusail Stadium, Qatar on the evening of 12/9/2022. Photo: AP
Scaloni's words moved Maxi De Vita, a reporter from Ciudad de Venado Tuerto, to tears.
Noticing this, Scaloni asked, "Are you crying?"
Maxi nodded, then choked up, "You and Messi have given me the greatest joy of my life."
His statement drew applause from the entire press room, and Scaloni himself shed tears.
Scaloni witnessed Messi's first steps with the national team and later led him to victory in the 2022 World Cup, along with two Copa America titles and an Intercontinental Super Cup (Finalissima). Argentina also ended a 36-year World Cup drought, thanks to Messi and Scaloni.
Scaloni stated that the match against Venezuela would be Messi's last World Cup qualifier in South America but didn't believe it would be his final match in Argentina. "One day, we will organize a proper farewell match for him in his homeland," he said. "It's impossible to describe what Messi has brought to football and to this country."
Not only is Messi the leader who took Argentina to the top of the world, but he is also a national icon, intertwined with the memories of millions of fans. On 12/19/2022, millions of Argentinians poured into the streets to celebrate the World Cup victory. He also holds the record for winning the Ballon d'Or eight times, the most prestigious individual award in football.
Hoang An (Ole)
