Bangladesh midfielder Hamza Choudhury believes Lionel Messi and Emiliano Martinez can make the difference for Argentina against Spain in the FIFA World Cup final.
Argentina are one win away from keeping the trophy they won in Qatar. Hamza feels their experience and winning mindset give them a strong chance in the final.
He said Messi remains the main source of belief for the team.
“Argentina have quality across the pitch, experience in big matches and a strong winning mentality,” Hamza said.
“But when the biggest moment arrives, everyone will look at Lionel Messi. He brings belief, leadership and fear for the opponent. If Argentina win the World Cup again, I believe he will be at the centre of it.”
Messi is now 39, but he still plays a major role for Argentina.
He showed his value again in the semifinal against England. Argentina came from behind to win 2 1, with Messi setting up both goals.
Hamza said Messi’s long career shows more than natural talent.
“Messi changed football with his vision, intelligence and special moments,” he said.
“His career feels like a fairytale. He has great natural talent, but talent alone cannot keep someone at the top for almost 20 years.”
Hamza also praised goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
He believes Martinez gives Argentina confidence in difficult moments.
“Behind Messi, Argentina have another player who gives them great belief,” Hamza said.
“Martinez is made for big matches. The bigger the stage, the stronger he becomes.”
Hamza said the goalkeeper stays calm when the pressure is highest.
“He can make a key save late in the match. He can also handle the pressure of a penalty shootout. He always looks calm and brave.”
Hamza feels Argentina’s unity is just as important as their individual talent.
“This team has been together for a long time and the players understand each other very well,” he said.
“They know how to win because they are the defending champions. That also brings pressure, but they have shown that they can deal with it.”
Spain have been one of the strongest teams in the tournament. They will enter the final with confidence after beating France in the semifinal.
Argentina, however, know what it takes to win football’s biggest match.
Hamza believes that experience, along with Messi and Martinez, could make Argentina favourites to lift the trophy again.
