Argentina leads World Cup 2026 with 9 points, but Puyol highlights Messi as key figure
The Argentina national team, leading the 2026 World Cup with 9 points in 3 matches (3W-0D-0L), received praise from Carles Puyol, Lionel Messi's former Barcelona teammate. Despite the final loss to Spain (1-0 on July 19), Puyol stated: 'If Argentina reached the final, it was thanks to Messi'.
What did Puyol say about Messi in the 2026 World Cup?
Puyol, 2010 World Cup winner with Spain, highlighted Messi's leadership at 39: 'He is the best in history, an example for young players'. Messi scored 8 goals and provided 4 assists, surpassing Miroslav Klose as the all-time top World Cup scorer (21 goals).
Why was Messi crucial for Argentina?
Puyol emphasized that Argentina wasn't consistent, but Messi 'took responsibility in the last 30 minutes of every match'. Despite the clash with Spain, where Spain was superior, Messi left a historic mark.
What's next for Argentina in the 2026 World Cup?
Argentina, with a 5-point lead over Austria, aims to consolidate its dominance. Their recent form (4W-0D-1L) and Messi's performance, with 8 goals and 1 conceded, keep them as favorites.
