“I automatically regretted it” - When Lionel Messi considered himself ‘an idiot’ for infamous act at 2022 FIFA World Cup
Lionel Messi once revealed that he immediately regretted his infamous act against the Netherlands in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. Argentina locked horns with the Oranje in the quarterfinals of the tournament in Qatar.
The then manager of the Netherlands, Lous van Gaal, had criticized Messi's style of play in the build-up to the game. They didn't sit well with the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, who decided to respond on the pitch.
The diminutive magician first sliced open the opposition with a glorious through ball, setting up Nahuel Molina (35') to score the opener. Messi then scored from the spot to send La Albiceleste 2-0 ahead in the 73rd minute. Following his goal, La Pulga celebrated by cupping his ears, which was a show of defiance against Van Gaal.
However, speaking to ESPN Argentina last year, Lionel Messi revealed that he was immediately concerned after his action.
"I came up with the 'Topo Gigio' [the goal celebration in which a player puts his hands to his ears as a sign of defying someone] right there and I automatically regretted it. As soon as I did it I thought: 'What an idiot. They can still tie it.' These things usually happen," said Messi.
Of course, Messi's worst fears came true. Wout Weghorst came off the bench to score a late brace (83', 90+11') taking the game to extra time and then penalties. Argentina reigned supreme, getting the better of the Netherlands 4-3 in the penalties. La Albiceleste went on to get the better of Croatia in the semifinals and then downed France in the final to lift the coveted World Cup.
How many goals did Lionel Messi score in the 2022 FIFA World Cup?
Lionel Messi won his second Golden Ball at the 2022 FIFA World Cup. He had previously won the award at the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where he also powered his nation to the final but came up second best against Germany.
However, La Pulga wouldn't be denied in Qatar. The Argentinean ended the tournament with seven goals and three assists. He narrowly missed out on the Golden Boot, which went on Kylian Mbappe following his hat-trick in the final.
The 37-year-old, who currently plays for Inter Miami in the MLS, was among only three Argentineans to play every minute of every game in the tournament. In a total of 690 minutes of action, Messi attempted a tournament-high 32 shots.