The 2022 World Cup was a legacy-defining moment for Lionel Messi, but it was hardly expected to create another icon. No one will disagree about Emiliano Martinez’s role in Argentina’s triumph in the final after his miraculous save in the dying stages of the tournament. Hence, who could be more grateful than Messi, who waited for 18 years to reach his goal? However, it took the Inter Miami captain more than a year to give his take on the World Cup-defining moment and it is nostalgic for the Argentine fans.

Speaking in a recent interview, Messi acknowledged Martinez’s save as unique. He reportedly said, “I do rewatch some moments of the last World Cup and I enjoy them with my family. The Dibu save happened so fast and then we hit them straight on the counter after that so I didn’t really see it. I rewatched it after we were champions and I must say it was an incredible save,” stating how it went unnoticed due to the crux of the moment.

Coming to the save, a fraction of a second could have lost Argentina the Cup. The Aston Villa player stretched his left leg completely towards the side and saved a close-range shot from France’s Randal Kolo Muani in the 3rd minute of stoppage time in extra time. Subsequently, Argentina had to immediately switch on the attack and also missed a chance to score as Lautaro Martinez missed the header inside the box.

Nevertheless, the moment may have taken the save away from Messi’s mind, but it will be etched in the hearts of Messi and all the fans forever. The 8-time Ballon d’Or winner has now claimed that he is much calmer in the national team camp due to that victory, thanks to Emi Martinez. However, it may not be the last one.

Lionel Messi hints at another World Cup

The Argentine has made 5 World Cup appearances so far and finally lifted the World Cup trophy in 2022. But Lionel Messi is not ruling out his participation in the 2026 World Cup. The 36-year-old will be 2 years older but recently stated that he could make his way if he feels that he can help his teammates. However, the player is being pragmatic about the expectation and revealed that his age will also be a factor.

However, the Argentine captain has Copa America to deal with currently. The defending champions will go in as favorites, as Brazil’s form looked a bit shaky during the World Cup Qualifiers. But with other South American teams competent enough to give a fight, it will be a challenge for the Albiceleste.