Before the World Cup semi-final match between Argentina and the Netherlands, to be held on Wednesday, four-time best player of the planet and captain of the Argentine national team Lionel Messi expressed his opinion on the surprises of this championship and the dream of playing in the final with Brazil, reported 15min.lt.
- There is a real possibility that Argentina could face Brazil in the World Cup final. Would such a final be what everyone is waiting for?
- Of course, a final where two South American teams meet would be something special. Both Argentine and Brazilian football fans are passionate followers of this sport and share this passion with their teams. Playing in the World Cup final at the "Maracana" stadium is every footballer's dream. But in the match against the Dutch, we need to play better than ever to secure a place in the final. That is what we are thinking about now.
- How do you assess the skeptics who did not believe that the Argentine team would reach the semi-finals?
- I do not pay attention to other people's opinions, all my focus is on the team and our game. If we focus solely on improving our game and stick to our tactics, then the results will speak for themselves.
- Are you satisfied with the team's performance in the championship?
- The team is playing well, and we work hard to improve our game even more. The match with Switzerland was a big test, but we showed what we are best at. We later defeated the Belgian team, and tomorrow we will fight for the opportunity to play in the final. We have a strong defense, which gives us more freedom to control the ball. The atmosphere in the dressing room is especially important, and we feel like a real team - it helps us achieve victories.
- Are there players in the championship who have surprised you?
- Yes, one of such players I could highlight is James Rodriguez - he is a true sensation of the Colombian team. His goal against Uruguay was a true masterpiece. All the Colombian team's matches were incredible. Colombians have shown that any team in the World Cup can surprise.
- What do you think about the early exit of former World Cup champions Spain?
- The Spanish team was in a very difficult group. The World Cup is full of surprises, many good teams have dropped out, giving space to previously less-favored teams. However, the Spanish have many good players who will surely return stronger and more determined to the next championship.
- What can you say about the number of goals you have scored in this championship? How is it to play with the official ball of this championship - "brazuca"?
- I think the ball is phenomenal! People will talk about this World Cup for a long time, every game provided fans with unforgettable emotions. I am glad that I could contribute to that with my goals. Speaking of the "brazuca" ball, playing with it is really great under any circumstances. Every championship needs an icon, and the "brazuca" ball has become one.
- The most scoring player award "Golden Boot" or the World Cup trophy?
- The World Cup trophy. Always. When a footballer wins the World Cup, it is the greatest achievement of his career. It's what you dream of as a child, but those dreams always stay with you. I asked my team mates from Barcelona, Xavi, Iniesta, Pique: what is the feeling of holding trophies in your hands? But none of them had words to describe it. We will do everything to turn dreams into reality.
- Is there any additional pressure that weighs on you as the team captain?
- I feel a healthy pressure. It is a great honor to be the captain of my team, and I redirect any additional pressure to my performance on the field. I want to regain the trust of my team and prove that we can win.
15min.lt
