Messi opens up about Argentina's chances of winning the 2018 World Cup

June 1, 2018 By Ali M.

Topics: Lionel Messi, Argentina, Israel, International Friendly

The five-time Ballon d'Or winner also named his favorite to lift the trophy in Russia.

The 2018 World Cup could be the last opportunity for Lionel Messi to follow in the footsteps of Maradona and get his hands on football's most coveted prize. Even the Barcelona forward admits to this, as he will be 34 by the time Qatar 2022 rolls around the corner.

Speaking in an interview with the Times in India, La Pulga confessed that it is likely now or never for this generation of Argentine players to lift the title. Aguero turns 30 on Saturday; Di Maria and Higuain have both reached that mark already, while Mascherano is way past it at the age of 33.

Being asked if La Albiceleste can be crowned champion in Russia, the five-time Ballon d'Or winner said: "My dream is still the same – to be in the final and lift the cup.

"It is really difficult to go the distance and play the final of a World Cup. That we had experienced already in 2014. We want to do the same and change the last result.

"We want to lift the Cup this time since this might be the last chance for our generation of footballers to win it."

Sampaoli's side is one of the favorites, given their talented squad, but they are not the favorite to go all the way in the summer tournament. Their struggles in the qualifying stage and dependence on Leo has raised doubts over their ability to lift the title.

As a result, the likes of Germany, Brazil, Spain, and France are ahead of them in the eyes of many pundits and critics. When asked who would likely triumph, Messi hinted that it would probably be Joachim Low's men.

"All the big footballing nations will start as favorites. The reigning champions, Germany will try their best to achieve it once more," the Argentina captain added.

"Spain has a very good side that can go the distance. Brazil and Portugal did well in the qualifiers, so did France."

Lionel admitted that the 2014 defeat at the Maracana is one that he cannot forget, but only time will tell if he will suffer similar heartbreak this time around. First, Argentina must overcome Israel in their friendly clash before facing the likes of Croatia, Nigeria, and Iceland in the group stage.