It was an almighty shame that Lionel Messi had to miss Argentina’s friendlies against Italy and Spain due to a hamstring problem."I have been suffering from this hamstring injury for some time," Messi told TyC Sports before the 2-0 win against Italy on Friday.“I always want to play, but the road to the World Cup is still long.”So Messi watched on as Argentina defeated Italy, proving they can win without their star player?But this isn’t one of the great Italy sides of old. They failed to qualify for the World Cup and are in a period of transition.The true test came against Spain, who are among the favourites to win the tournament in Russia.And it became evident last night in Madrid that without Messi, Argentina are rather hopeless.
Argentina were humiliated by Spain last night
Jorge Sampaoli’s side were embarrassed 6-1 at Atletico Madrid’s Wanda Metropolitano stadium, their equal worst defeat in history.
A hat-trick from Isco, along with goals from Diego Costa, Thiago Alcantara and Iago Aspas secured the win for the hosts.
Unfortunately for Messi, he had to watch on as his teammates were humiliated by La Roja.
Fans on Twitter immediately began pointing out that, despite failing to lead Argentina to international glory, the result proves Messi has carried his country for a decade.
Messi is often criticised in his home country for losing three Copa America finals, one World Cup final and briefly retiring in 2016.
But without Messi, Argentina couldn’t even boast about reaching four major finals while he’s played international football.
Would Argentina be at the World Cup if not for Messi?
Indeed, La Albiceleste probably wouldn’t even have a World Cup to look forward to if it wasn’t for Messi.
The five-time Ballon d’Or winner scored seven goals in qualifying, including a hat-trick in the must-win match against Ecuador last October.
Costa himself summed it up perfectly after the match.
“In Argentina, they criticise Messi a lot but they have to see the team when they don't play Messi,” the Atletico Madrid and Spain striker said, per Fox Sports.
“Argentina should take care of Leo.”
Maybe now, after seeing what can happen without Messi in the side, they will.