Argentina really needed Lionel Messi on Saturday night. The South Americans were threatened with the potential end of the World Cup – and that after just two games.
Messi had to deliver and Messi delivered. No sooner had the Mexicans let the mega-star’s cover, which had been so attentive until then, slip a bit, so that the 35-year-old shot from about 20 meters, when the ball wriggled in the net.
For everyone involved, but especially for himself, this goal was a very emotional moment. Argentina was already under a lot of pressure after their opening defeat against Saudi Arabia. This was relieved with the 1-0 lead by the seven-time winner of the Ballon d’Or. Instead, the fans and teammates felt a sense of security. There was certainty: they can rely on Messi.
The ‘greatest of all time’, as many football fans call him, also enjoyed his goal very much. He paused for a moment in front of the fans who had traveled with him from home as his team-mates made their way back to their half of the pitch. Messi looked into the curve with tears in his eyes and was happy with the fans – loud “Messi” chants resounded in the background.
“Now it’s up to us again,” he said after the final whistle. Advancement is by no means guaranteed, but the Argentinians have it back in their own hands with the direct duel against Poland on Wednesday evening.
This article was originally published on 90min.de as Das Netz celebrates Messi – emotional jubilation after an important opening goal.
