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Lionel Messi is undoubtedly among the greatest soccer players of all time. Ever since the Argentinian has kept his feet on a soccer pitch, he has done nothing but work his magic. Be it on the domestic or international front, the 35-year-old has showcased his mercurial talent, thus acquiring legendary status in the beautiful game.

Moreover, his recent attainment of soccer’s most prestigious trophy, the FIFA World Cup, has made him the talk of the town. The attacker lifted the trophy back in December 2022, after enduring an emphatic final against France. The Argentinian got his chance at redemption against the 2018 World Cup winners, who knocked them out in the Round of 16 last time out.

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Argentina’s road to glory

Everyone is aware of the long history between Messi and the World Cup. The former Barcelona man had a decent career on the domestic front. However, he had bitter luck with his international career.

The playmaker put on a brave face despite his previous unsuccessful international campaigns, including the famous 2014 World Cup and a horrific early exit in the 2018 edition. However, all his fortunes turned after winning the 2019 Copa America.

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Not only did Argentina win their fifteenth Copa America, but it was also Messi’s first international trophy. This made Lionel Messi and Co. an ideal side for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Lionel Messi cusses teammate over World Cup prediction

No matter how much may deny it, Argentina was among the favorites to lift the trophy in France. It was something that many had predicted for the South American side.

Furthermore, besides the ardent fans, the whole Argentina camp truly believed they would take the trophy home at the end of the tournament. All the players and coaches were manifesting the win in the final.

In a recent interview, Argentina’s midfielder Rodrigo De Paul shared his story of getting cussed by the skipper for making his predictions clear before the quarter-finals.

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“After the Saudi, I wrote in the paper in Messi’s room that on December 18 we’d the champions.’ – I couldn’t wait and told him about that after the R16. I thought he’d be happy, but when he saw it, he told me: “Why’re you telling me! You’re an asshole! Now I’ve read it!” said De Paul in an interview.

During such tournaments, players are frequently perceived as being extremely superstitious, and the Argentinian No. 10 was no exception.

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Nevertheless, it was indeed a happy ending for La Albiceleste as they fulfilled the dreams of millions of soccer fans. What do you make of Rodrigo De Paul’s story and Messi’s subsequent reaction? Let us know in the comments below.

Written by

Abhishek Mishra

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Edited by

Amal Joyce