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BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – SEPTEMBER 07: Lionel Messi of Argentina and Moises Caicedo of Ecuador during the FIFA World Cup, WM, Weltmeisterschaft, Fussball 2026 Qualifier match round 1 between Argentina and Ecuador at Estadio Mas Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti on September 07, 2023 in Buenos Aires, Arg Argentina v Ecuador: FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match round 1 Copyright: xDiegoxHalisz/SFSIx
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BUENOS AIRES, ARGENTINA – SEPTEMBER 07: Lionel Messi of Argentina and Moises Caicedo of Ecuador during the FIFA World Cup, WM, Weltmeisterschaft, Fussball 2026 Qualifier match round 1 between Argentina and Ecuador at Estadio Mas Monumental Antonio Vespucio Liberti on September 07, 2023 in Buenos Aires, Arg Argentina v Ecuador: FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier match round 1 Copyright: xDiegoxHalisz/SFSIx
Brush away the thoughts that Lionel Messi is finished with Argentina. After winning the World Cup in Qatar, Messi moved to Inter Miami after leaving PSG. Despite the early concerns about what he can offer at 32, the soccer superstar seems to age like fine wine. Lionel conjured up the team spirit, and David Beckham’s franchise looks formidable. Similarly, he replicated his form with Argentina for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match against Ecuador.
Messi scored a sensational free-kick to give Argentina the victory. However, the Ecuadorian goalkeeper’s jersey exchange became controversial. The fans questioned Hernan Galindez’s commitment to the nation. Born in Argentina, Galindez opted to be the man between the sticks for Ecuador. Due to this, he received widespread criticism for the jersey swap.
Ecuadorian goalkeeper receives widespread criticism for changing jerseys!
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As every player adores Messi, they come after the match to swap shirts or take selfies with the Argentinean. As Galindez did the same, how he conceded the free-kick angered Ecuadorian fans. Therefore, the jersey change after that match frustrated the fans even more. But after his team’s game against Uruguay, the soccer player stated the emotional reasons for swapping the jersey. According to TN30, the $537k rich goalkeeper took the jersey for his kids.
Galindez stated, “It was a gift for my son because he had promised it to him a long time ago. He had faced him three times, and he had never done it.” The goalkeeper understood he would receive criticism for swapping the jerseys. Hence, he explained how he had two kids and wanted to do it for them. Galindez continued, “My son’s joy when he received his idol’s shirt and he is six years old and. He deserved it.” Galindez also discussed the best player in the world, scoring a free-kick against him, and explained how no one could do anything about it.
Furthermore, he added that the fans’ resentment baffled him and didn’t want his loyalty questioned. The goalkeeper ended by mentioning, “They always say that I was not born here and I cannot fight against that because it was not my decision. I am Ecuadorian. When they mess with my nationality, I don’t like it.” Thus, having a jersey of Messi is what most fans crave for. Galindez’s son becomes the lucky few to do it!
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Lionel Messi continues to excel with Inter Miami!
Whenever Messi stepped on the pitch, he filled the stands with anticipation and curiosity. The little magic touches followed by body feints have taken the MLS by storm. In 11 appearances, he scored 11 goals and created five assists. There is no stopping the Argentinean, who could probably play one more World Cup.
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MLS, Fussball Herren, USA Inter Miami CF at Los Angeles FC Sep 3, 2023 Los Angeles, California, USA Inter Miami CF forward Lionel Messi 10 reacts in the first half against the Los Angeles FC at BMO Stadium. Los Angeles BMO Stadium California USA, EDITORIAL USE ONLY PUBLICATIONxINxGERxSUIxAUTxONLY Copyright: xKirbyxLeex 20230903_lbm_al2_029
By now, everyone knows the USA will host the 2026 World Cup. Another World Cup appearance while playing for Inter Miami would solidify his already-elite status for the supporters. Who wants another potential showdown between Messi and Ronaldo?
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