[골닷컴] Reporter Kim Dong-ho = There is only one game left until Lionel Messi’s last dance. If Messi makes it to the final stage, he will set the record for the most appearances in a World Cup.
‘Tango Corps’ Argentina and ‘Roble Corps’ France will face off for the championship cup in the 2022 FIFA World Cup finals in Qatar, held at Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar at 0:00 am (Korean time) on the 19th.
An exciting confrontation is expected as they challenge for the third championship in their career side by side. If Argentina wins the trophy, it will be the first time in 36 years since 1986. On the other hand, if France becomes the champion, it will become the third player in history to win two consecutive World Cups, after Italy and Brazil.
In particular, many soccer fans are paying attention to whether Argentina will win the championship. It’s because of Messi’s existence. Messi, who made his debut at the 2006 World Cup in Germany, is participating in five consecutive tournaments, including the 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022 World Cups.
I have a painful memory of coming close to the trophy at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, but losing to Germany and staying in second place. Therefore, the World Cup in Qatar is a precious opportunity for Messi. Her Argentinian colleagues and fans are all united in unison for her own ‘Last Dance’.
Messi’s appearance in the World Cup final is certain. He is not only a mental support, but also the core of the current Argentine attack. Messi is recording the most offensive points in the team with 5 goals and 3 assists. Here, it is a situation where it is ranked first in the scoring section and tied for first place in the assist section.
In addition, if he participates in just one more game, he is expected to become the highest number of players in the World Cup. Germany’s Lothar Matheus holds the top spot for the most appearances in the World Cup. Matheus made his 25th career World Cup appearance. Currently, Messi is also expected to make 25 appearances, equaling Matheus, or soon to reach 26.