World Cup Trivia: Argentina to win the World Cup?

Argentina beat Nigeria 3-2, thanks to a double strike from Messi in one of the most exciting matches in the World Cup so far.

The Nigerians put up two counts of splendid comebacks by matching both Messi’s goals within 3 minutes. 

However, they failed to repeat the feat thrice, and a header from Marcus Roja in the 50^th minute sealed the victory.

That said, the Nigerians also advanced into the last 16, a result they well deserved.

Magic Messi

Messi opened the scoring at the 3^rd minute scored and another spectacular free kick seconds before the second half.

Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi said, "Messi is from Jupiter, he is different." Jupiter or not, the addition of two goals into the tally propels Messi up to the top of the goalscoring chart at 4 goals, together with fellow Barcelona clubmate, Neymar.

With his current form, he looks set to bring Argentina into the World Cup.

(Just an interesting observation: Hands up if you noticed Messi’s simple celebration move of running around with arms wide open)

The Differentiating factor: Track Record

I previously also discussed whether Netherlands can win the world cup. If there anything that differentiates the power of Messi vs the twin strike force of Robben and Van Persie, it’s the track record.

The trends points to a very possible victory for the Albiceleste. Argentina has won the World cup 2 times, once in 1978 when they were hosts and the second time in 1986 in Mexico. It would not be a surprise for Messi to “do a Maradona” and lift the World Cup this time round in Brazil. Go Messi, prove the critics wrong.

Another interesting trivia tidbit is that out of the 15 previous appearances, Argentina has never lost in the Semi Finals. Thus if they make it that far, we can safely assume they will sail smooth into the finals. At least, I would say the odds will be higher than Suarez biting again in this world cup…

EUFASS

World Cup Trivia is a series designed for the current World Cup 2014 to give fans more than one ways to savour the game. 

World Cup Trivia: Messi, the new Maradona?

Iran did well in holding star-studded Argentina off for 90 minutes, but their efforts came to naught when they gave Messi the slightest chance to perform his magic during injury time. Messi’s late goal reminded me of some cheat code which you can make the player score from any distance with the touch of a “power” button.

Messi: Rough Beginnings

Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency at 11. However, though he was scouted by Argentine club River Plate, they were unwilling to pay for his medical fees. It was Barcelona, his current club, that offered to pay his medical fees and thus, Messi moved to Spain and became a sensation at Barcelona. It is no doubt one of the best investments Barcelona made in my opinon.

Messi VS Maradona

Frequently compared to Diego Maradona, Messi exhibited skills, power, agility and goals which easily rival that of the Argentine soccer legend. However, one key difference still remains – Messi has yet to win a World Cup. One match against Iran is not enough. His liberation will only come if he is able to take Argentina to the finals and win, a feat that Maradona accomplished in 1986.  

Now, take some time to enjoy some of the greatest goals scored by Messi, and notice the stark similarity of the last goal to this sensational one of Maradona's. 

Regardless, Argentina has produced two undisputable soccer geniuses. 

EUFASS

World Cup Trivia is a series designed for the current World Cup 2014 to give fans more than one ways to savour the game.