Lionel Messi has walked 47% of the distance he has covered at this World Cup, the highest share of any outfield player. Yet the 39-year-old has scored eight goals and supplied three assists for Argentina.
He has taken 33 shots and created 21 chances, while averaging 8.2km per 90 minutes and 2.7 sprints per match, down from 5.3 sprints four years ago. His movement has changed, but his influence in attack remains clear.
Argentina face England in Wednesday’s semi-final at Atlanta Stadium, with Messi seeking a place in his third World Cup final. England’s task is stark: across Messi’s past 15 World Cup appearances, only Poland have kept him from either scoring or assisting.
Messi began his Barcelona career on the right wing in 2003 and later moved towards a central role. Now at Inter Miami, he is playing in his sixth World Cup, a joint record with Cristiano Ronaldo and Guillermo Ochoa.
Please note! Comments are published by readers. The opinions expressed may not reflect the position of the editorial team. NYCT is not responsible for the content of readers' opinions and asks authors to observe moral standards, not to incite national or racial hatred, and to avoid rudeness. Think before you speak. You are responsible for your words! By publishing an opinion, you agree to the rules! If this request is ignored, NYCT reserves the right to deprive the user of the ability to leave comments.