Rivaldo surprisingly backs Messi and arch-rivals Argentina for World Cup glory
Brazil legend Rivaldo is surprising backing Lionel Messi and arch rivals Argentina to win the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Argentina have reached the final after sealing a comfortable 3-0 victory over Croatia in the semi-finals, where they will face either France or Morocco on Sunday, in a bid to be crowned champions.
The PSG forward is currently the joint top goalscorer alongside France’s Kylian Mbappe with five goals a piece and has been one of the stars of the major tournament.
The 2002 World Cup winning midfielder has revealed that he will be cheering for Argentina in the final with Brazil already being dumped out, as he believes Messi deserves to bag the piece of silverware that is currently missing from his trophy-laden career.
Rivaldo is, however, risking the wrath of his nation with his public backing of Messi and Argentina to win.
He posted a picture of Messi on Instagram with the caption: ‘We no longer have Brazil or Neymar Jr. in the cup final so I’ll stay with Argentina.
‘No words for you Lionel Messi, you already deserved to be World Champion before, but God knows all things and will crown you this Sunday.
‘You deserve this title for the person you are and for the wonderful football you have always played. I take off my hat and may God bless you.’
Messi has already bagged four man of the match accolades during the tournament and he now stands a chance of winning the Golden Ball, Golden Boot and the World Cup trophy itself.
The 35-year-old has also surpassed Gabriel Batistuta to become Argentina’s all-time top scorer in World Cup finals after netting during their win over Croatia.
Messi also drew level with Germany legend Lothar Matthaus’ all-time World Cup appearance record, after making his 25th appearance.
That means Messi will move to 26 and overtake Matthaus’ record if he plays in the final, which you’d imagine barring a disaster that he will.
