Argentina have been defeated in all four finals of major tournaments in which Messi has featured
SOHBAT PUR: On June 27, renowned Argentinean footballer Lionel Messi announced his retirement from international football in the wake of his team’s defeat in the Copa America final. Messi is one of the world’s best football players. He was awarded Fifa’s Ballon d’Or player of the year award an unprecedented five times; even his archrival Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal has won it only three times. Messi is, undoubtedly, an all-time great just like his compatriot Diego Maradona. His skills are unmatched, his precision unbelievable and his ability to adapt his play in diverse playing conditions make him the most talented player of his time.
Despite all the feathers in his cap, he has decided to call it a day when he failed to win a title for his national team — something he lamented in his post-match press conference. Argentina have been defeated in all four finals of major tournaments in which Messi has featured. For Messi, the national team’s glory was top priority and when he faltered despite continued efforts, he did not waste a moment in stepping away to make room for new players. There is a clear lesson for all sportsmen in Messi’s example, especially for Pakistani sportsmen. They need to uphold team goals instead of individual achievements. Messi will be missed by the entire world. He is a true legend.
Rashid Hussain Bhatti
Published in The Express Tribune, June 30th, 2016.
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