World Cup qualifiers are difficult, says Lionel Messi

Lionel Messi against Chile

Superstar Lionel Messi said it's no easy job in the 2018 World Cup's South American football qualifiers while appreciating his Argentine team's away triumphs against Colombia and Chile.

"The qualifiers are very difficult. It takes a lot to win as a visitor and also at home. It isn't easy to go out and play and see that you are in the bottom half of the table. For that reason winning is so important," said Messi on Saturday, reports Xinhua.

Messi praised the team's quality after Argentina made a bad start in the qualifying campaign with two draws and a shock 0-2 defeat against Ecuador in Buenos Aires.

"It seems that we start off on the wrong foot, but with win over Colombia and now in Chile, things are becoming better," added the 28-year-old forward.

Messi was also happy to return and play for the national team, as he was unable to participate in the first four matches due to an injury.

"I got injured and it was a difficult time for the team. I missed the national team, and want to be with my team-mates. Now I can help once again," he said.