Lionel Messi is set to play in the last match of 2024 tomorrow morning (Bangladesh time), when Argentina faces Peru in a World Cup qualifier. This year, though filled with a mix of bittersweet moments, has largely been sweet for Messi. He not only led Inter Miami to a new trophy but also helped elevate the club to new heights.
Despite finishing the regular season with a record number of points, Messi will no doubt regret not advancing to the semifinals of the playoffs. On the international stage, however, Messi added another feather to his cap with a Copa América victory with Argentina.
Yet, as the World Cup qualifiers near the end of the year, Argentina’s recent struggles could cause some concern for Messi. He now has the chance to end the year on a high note with a win over Peru.
Messi himself is eagerly anticipating the match. On social media, he shared several photos of himself training with Argentina, writing, “I’m looking forward to joining everyone for the last match of another unforgettable year tomorrow.”
Messi and his teammates have been working hard in training to ensure a strong finish to the year. However, due to injury, there will be two changes to the starting XI from the loss against Paraguay. Reports suggest that Gonzalo Montiel may replace Nahuel Molina, and Leonardo Balerdi could take the place of Cristian Romero. On the bright side for Argentina, Nicolás Tagliafico is fit again after injury.
This year, in addition to the team’s collective achievements, Messi has also shown exceptional individual performances, especially with Inter Miami. In 25 matches, he scored 23 goals and provided 13 assists. For Argentina, he also had an impressive year, scoring a hat-trick after a long hiatus and contributing 6 goals and 4 assists in 10 matches. If not for the frequent injuries that hindered his progress, Messi’s statistics could have been even more remarkable.
