Lionel Messi told reporters that Julian Alvarez deserved to take home his Man of the Match award instead of him after his brilliant performance for Argentina against Croatia.
After the Croatians dominated much of the early spells of the World Cup semi-final, it was Alvarez who turned the game on its head by winning a penalty in the box.
Messi converted with aplomb to put Argentina 1-0 up at the Lusail Stadium.
However, the Manchester City striker was only just getting started.
In the 39th minute, Julian Alvarez picked up the ball from the middle of the park, left a number of defenders for dead and doubled Argentina’s lead with a truly sensational solo goal.
For La Albiceleste’s third goal as well, the 22-year-old coolly finished Lionel Messi’s sublime assist, as Argentina beat a plucky Croatia side 3-0.
Lionel Messi feels Julian Alvarez deserved to win the Man of the Match award instead of him
After his stunning showing for Argentina, Lionel Messi was handed the Man of the Match award instead of Julian Alvarez.
However, Messi himself believes that the youngster deserved to be given the honour after his exploits against Croatia.
“Every player did very well, but if I have to choose I would give this [Man of the Match] award to Julian Alvarez”, he told reporters (via City Xtra).
“He had an extraordinary game.”
The Lionel Messi stamp of approval just shows how ready Julian Alvarez already is
However, it seems as if Alvarez is already ready to be recognised as a world-class striker. If being this prolific at the World Cup isn’t enough evidence to prove how brilliant Julian Alvarez, the Lionel Messi stamp of approval is
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