Manchester United defender Marcos Rojo has revealed what Lionel Messi said to inspire Argentina to victory over Nigeria on Tuesday.
La Albiceleste needed to win to go through through in Saint Petersburg, and with a lot of pressure on his shoulders, Messi inspired his country. But Rojo scored the crucial goal in the 2-1 win.
Rojo told reporters after the game just how important Messi was in helping the team get over the line.
“Messi came up to us and told us to calm down and not be stressed,” he said.
“We felt nervous and that message helped us a lot and gave me personally a huge confidence boost.
Man of the Match: Lionel Messi. #ARG pic.twitter.com/uiNIkuVIYR
— Match of the Day (@BBCMOTD) June 26, 2018
“Messi is our captain and he’s the best captain in the world, it was amazing to score that goal. Messi told everyone that it was either life or death. It could’ve gone badly. We could’ve conceded but Leo was stubborn.
Lionel Messi, leader and coach of Argentina#Messi #LionelMessi #arjentina #WorldCupRussia2018 #ArgentinaNigeria #ARG #LeoMessi pic.twitter.com/4LD4RKInSL
— مصطفی جعفری (@MOSTAFAJAEFARI) June 26, 2018
They said Messi is not a leader.. They lied
— Roy Nsirim (@maestroroy) June 27, 2018
They said Messi has a poor right foot… They lied
They said Messi won't cross the group stage…. They lied
Everything they say about Lionel Messi… Lies pic.twitter.com/HDud8WwUPR
“He told me to run forward. Even [Javier] Mascherano. He told everyone to attack no matter what. He truly read the game and risks. He’s a leader. The best.”
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