The two greats are now tied
Lionel Messi equalled Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of major international honours after helping Argentina to victory in the Finalissima on Wednesday night.
Argentina dominated Italy and secured a 3-0 win thanks to goals from Lautaro Martínez, Ángel Di María and Paulo Dybala.
The showpiece event – which saw the champions of South America face off against the European champions – took place at Wembley stadium, with Messi grabbing two assists in the convincing victory for Lionel Scaloni’s side.
The triumph in London means that the Paris Saint-Germain forward Messi has now equalled Manchester United striker Ronaldo’s haul of major international honours after he also helped his country end their 18-year trophy drought with Copa America victory last July.
Ronaldo has won both the European Championships and Nations League with Portugal. Both players will represent their respective countries at the World Cup later this year, in what could potentially be their last chance to secure silverware on the international stage.
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Difficult debut campaign in Paris
Despite enjoying a successful period with Argentina, Messi endured somewhat of a difficult start to life in Paris. By his own high standards, he has flattered to deceive since leaving Barcelona – even though he registered 11 goals and 15 assists in 34 appearances this season.
However, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner revealed that adapting to life away from the LaLiga giants had been a ‘shock’.
Speaking before Wednesday night’s match, Messi told Argentine outlet TyC Sports: “It was really difficult to understand what happened, I wasn’t expecting to leave Barcelona – it was a shock.
“I had everything in Barcelona. I left when I was very young. What’s more: I lived more in Barcelona than in Argentina. The truth is that I had no plans to change anything. Luckily, the children’s adaptation was spectacular. For Antonella and me it was more difficult.”
Messi backs himself to perform next season
The 34-year-old backed himself to return to form next campaign, insisting that it would be ‘way better’ for the PSG forward.
“Next season will be way better for me with Paris Saint-Germain, I’m sure. It was not easy after that crazy summer,” he added.
Related links:
- ‘It empowers a repressive government’ – Lionel Messi and his Saudi Arabia Tourism deal
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- Lionel Messi ranked above Benzema as best performing player in Europe this season
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