Lionel Messi’s journey with the Argentina national team is a story of perseverance, heartache, and ultimate triumph. While Messi was conquering the world at the club level with FC Barcelona, his international career had a rocky start. Many questioned whether Messi could replicate his club success with his national team. However, through dedication and resilience, Messi led Argentina to Copa América glory in 2021 and finally, the ultimate prize: the World Cup in 2022.
Early Struggles with Argentina (2005-2010)
Messi made his debut for Argentina in 2005, but the early years were marked by frustration. Despite his brilliance at Barcelona, success with the national team was elusive. Argentina experienced several near-misses in major tournaments, including the 2007 Copa América final loss to Brazil.
The Weight of Expectations (2010-2016)
As Messi’s star continued to rise at Barcelona, so too did the expectations for him with Argentina. The pressure mounted during the 2010 World Cup, but Argentina fell short. The disappointment continued in the 2014 World Cup, where Messi carried Argentina to the final, only to suffer a heartbreaking defeat against Germany. Subsequent Copa América losses in 2015 and 2016 led Messi to briefly retire from international football, overwhelmed by the pressure and heartbreak.
The Comeback: Copa América Triumph (2021)
In 2021, everything changed. Messi returned to lead Argentina to victory in the Copa América, defeating Brazil in the final at the Maracanã. This victory was not just a triumph for Argentina but a personal redemption for Messi, who had long been criticized for his lack of international silverware.
World Cup Glory (2022)
The pinnacle of Messi’s international career came in December 2022, when he led Argentina to win the FIFA World Cup. After a tense final against France, Messi’s two goals and leadership in the penalty shootout delivered Argentina’s third World Cup and cemented Messi’s status as one of football’s greatest players of all time.
Conclusion: From Doubt to Immortality
Messi’s journey with Argentina is a testament to his resilience and love for his country. From early disappointments to becoming a world champion, Messi’s legacy with Argentina is now complete, and his name will forever be linked with football’s greatest prize.