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Messi dedicates his post-match gift to Maradona
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Messi stole the spotlight in last night’s semifinal clash in Atlanta. Although he could not score, both goals were assisted by him, which turned the momentum of the match. After guiding Argentina to the finals, Messi dedicated a special gift he received to late legend Maradona.
Following the match, Matias Pelliccioni gifted Messi Maradona’s iconic 1986 World Cup jersey. Maradona had worn this jersey during the historic quarterfinal against England at the Azteca Stadium, where he scored twice.
Forty years later, the Albiceleste faced England again in a World Cup semifinal. Argentina secured a 2-1 victory to reach their sixth final.
In a special interview with Argentine media outlet TyC Sports after reaching the 2026 World Cup final, the Argentine captain shared his thoughts.
‘Without a doubt, Diego is thoroughly enjoying this moment from above, because today was very special for him,’ Messi said. ‘Being able to give him this joy, and knowing he is enjoying it from above, is what matters most. Let him enjoy it, because this is also a gift for him.’
Maradona passed away in 2020 at the age of 60. He did not live to witness Argentina's recent golden era. Under the duo of Lionel Messi and head coach Lionel Scaloni, Argentina clinched four major titles: the 2021 Copa America, the 2022 Finalissima, the 2022 World Cup, and the 2024 Copa America. Scaloni, who took charge in 2018, was once Messi's teammate.
Messi now has a golden opportunity to retain the World Cup title. Argentina will face Spain in the final in New Jersey on July 19.
Despite winning the Golden Ball twice, Messi has never won the Golden Boot. By assisting Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez last night, the Argentine captain currently leads the Golden Boot race with 8 goals and 4 assists.
Kylian Mbappe also has 8 goals but only three assists. The French captain still has a chance to increase his tally during the third-place play-off between France and England in Miami tomorrow.
-SA
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
