Lionel Messi has had an unforgettable career. Here are the six most memorable moments of his career.
An Unforgettable Debut
Lionel Messi’s international career started in 2005, at the age of 18, but not in the best of circumstances. He was sent off 90 seconds after making his debut against Hungary. He made his debut in a FIFA World Cup with Argentina a year later in 2004 against Serbia. He scored the final goal for his team in the match.
First World Cup Final
Messi was coming into the 2014 World Cup as a football superstar and captain of the Argentine team. He got his team on its feet throughout the tournament, scoring in all three of the matches in group stages. Argentina made it to their first World Cup final since 1990, where they were beaten 1-0 in extra time by Germany.
Heartbreak in 2016
Messi’s lows occurred after losing two back-to-back Copa America finals. In 2015, Argentina went down against Chile on penalties and in 2016, Argentina lost again to Chile on penalties. Messi was so disappointed that he announced international retirement shortly after, only to change his mind six weeks later.
Finally, a Champion
Lionel Scaloni’s arrival as coach turned Argentina’s fortunes around. Messi finally won his first major international trophy in 2021 by defeating Brazil 1-0 in the Copa America final. The win marked the end of a 28-year search for a big win for the country.
Glory in Qatar
This World Cup was the turning point of Messi’s career as a national player. He played the second World Cup final of his career against France. Luckily, this time he was able to win the match.
The Final Chapter
Messi remained in action after Qatar, and claimed another Copa America gold medal in 2024. Despite being nearing the age of 39, he guided Argentina to another World Cup final. However, in the final, Argentina lost to Spain.
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