Messi faces historic sixth World Cup 'hopeful as always'

Lionel Messi is set to make history on Tuesday, becoming the first footballer to participate in six World Cups when Argentina plays Algeria.

Messi, who will be nearing his 39th birthday, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming tournament. "I am happy, enjoying every moment and hopeful as always," he stated after Argentina's recent 3-0 friendly victory over Iceland in Auburn, Alabama. This will be his first World Cup since leading Argentina to their third title in Qatar in 2022.

Despite his long and decorated career, Messi continues to demonstrate his commitment and skill. Since joining Inter Miami, he has scored 62 goals in 67 MLS matches, leading his team to their first league championship. His continued presence on the field has fueled national hopes for another World Cup triumph.

Messi had previously suggested that playing in another World Cup might be difficult due to the time gap. However, he explained that feeling good and gaining match rhythm naturally led to his decision to continue. He recently returned from a muscle overload to score a penalty in the friendly against Iceland.

Before the tournament, Messi shared nostalgic photos on Instagram from his previous five World Cup appearances, dating back to his debut in Germany in 2006. These images chronicle his journey through various tournaments, including the quarter-final losses in 2006 and 2010, the heartbreaking final defeat in 2014, and the round of 16 exit in 2018, which had led to a temporary retirement from international football.