Messi: “We’re only one step away from reaching our dream!”

by Guilherme Neto

Lionel Messi celebration after Argentina's qualification to the FIFA World Cup final

It’s been almost 30 years since Argentina last won a FIFA World Cup, but after last night’s victory against the Netherlands, the “Albiceleste” is just one game away from delivering their people the 3rd World Cup trophy in their history. Right after the game ended, one of the more happiest faces on the field was clearly Lionel Messi, who despite not having been as decisive as many would have wanted, seems to have made just enough to help carrying the Argentinian National Team into a World Cup final.

The Argentinian star converted the first penalty-kick in an always very tense shootout decision, but the hero role last night would have to be delivered to either the goalkeeper Sergio Romero, or even Javier Mascherano. The first one, stopped two penalty kicks and basically edged the game into Argentina‘s favor in a moment where any mistake could suddenly see them out of the tournament. As for Mascherano, he might not have worn the armband captaincy but he sure behaved like one throughout the whole match. It’s been a true display of sacrifice, intensity and determination from the man who usually plays as centre back in Barcelona, but who has been assuming the defensive midfielder role in this Alejandro Sabella‘s team.

Shortly after Argentina‘s 4-2 win (in penalty-kicks) over the Netherlands, Messi was keen to leave a short message not only to his fans, but also to his own teammates. Moreover, he also dedicated this win to an Argentinian journalist who passed away earlier this week in São Paulo, in a car crash.

Messi: “I’m truly proud of being part of this group of players! Everyone in this team is a phenomenon! What a game we’ve done, this is just incredible! We finally reached the final so let’s enjoy that feeling for a bit… A big hug to everyone in Argentina! We’re only one step away from our reaching our dream now…”, stated the FC Barcelona superstar through his social media pages.

Messi: “This victory goes for you Jorge “Topo” López! My condolences to all your family and friends. Be strong!”, remarked the 27-year old while dedicating this qualification to the final to an Argentinian reporter that recently passed away in Brazil.

Argentina and Germany will meet in the 2014 FIFA World Cup final this next Sunday, at the Maracanã stadium in Rio de Janeiro. The game is scheduled to start at the local 4 PM.

Sources: dailymail.co.uk / buenosairesherald.com / goal.com