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“They Wanted to Make Argentina Look Like the Villain” – Lionel Messi Discusses Angry Behavior vs Netherlands at World Cup

Published 11/03/2023, 11:53 PM EDT

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The FIFA World Cup quarter-finals between Argentina and Netherlands turned out to be a fan-favorite. Both the teams looked highly motivated to clinch a win and qualify for the semis. However, the heightened tensions brought out the hidden emotions within the players. The highlight of the match, though, remained Lionel Messi controversially fuming during the post-conference interview. Speaking on it now, the Argentine shed more light on how the opposition behaved in a ‘strange and unfair way’.

After his Ballon d’Or win, there has been a lot of talk surrounding his next World Cup endeavor. Fans and supporters have been eager to know if they’ll be able to see the little magician play.

Lionel Messi expresses his frustration over the ‘tense’ moments against the Dutch

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Former Netherlands head coach, Louis Van Gaal once expressed his opinion as he claimed the World Cup was rigged to let Messi clinch the award. However, there have been tensions brewing between the two national teams even before the kick-off, confirms Lionel Messi, as he talks about what went down that day.

He said, “Before the match, they started making statements publicly and causing friction among us, especially the coach Van Gaal. In the match, they behaved in a strange and unfair way, especially in the penalty shootout. And after the match they wanted to make Argentina look like the villain in the story. Many things happened, and in moments of tension, everyone behaves differently.”

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The soccer veteran then went on to speak about his angry behavior, justifying his actions, he said, “This is because of what happened before and during the match. They talked a lot. I admit I didn’t like seeing myself that way, but it was tense moments and anything could’ve happened”. While putting things into perspective, what’s next for the Argentinean soccer star?

La Pulga has already spoken about his Copa America plans but fans have been eager to know about his take on the 2026 World Cup. Just recently, he provided the fanbase with an answer.

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Will Messi play in the upcoming 2026 World Cup?

Lionel Messi is pure soccer heritage. At the club level, the Argentine has conquered the soccer sphere for more than a decade. He has played 889 games scoring 721 goals and providing 344 assists. However, it seems like the soccer veteran could be putting a stop to his international features by the time the next World Cup kicks off.

2023 Ballon d’Or Voting: Lionel Messi Received 105 Points More Than Erling Haaland as Votes Revealed for All Nominees

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While sharing his take on the upcoming 2026 tournament, the legend said, “The 2026 World Cup? Considering the age I will be at that time, it seems difficult, but we’ll see…”. Messi’s remarks underline the undeniable age factor that the fans don’t want to accept. However, he hasn’t fully closed the certain yet. Currently plying his trade in Inter Miami, the Argentine might be able to stretch his noteworthy career for another three years. Do you wish to see Messi playing in the next World Cup? Let us know in the comments below.

Watch this story: Soccer Stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo Makes a Huge Assist for Esports Space

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Written by:

Neil Banerjee

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One take at a time

Neil has found his niche as a soccer writer at EssentiallySports. With a background in media studies, he possesses a deep appreciation for the intricacies, the strategies and the awe-inspiring nature of the beautiful game, firmly believing that a variety of factors underpin each match. As a devoted Chelsea fan, Neil's passion extends to diving into the stories that surround the club and finding intriguing narratives.
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Edited by:

Daniel D'Cruz