Lionel Messi’s Joyful Moment During Argentina’s Victory Over Bolivia

Argentina’s recent World Cup qualifying match against Bolivia gave fans many memorable moments, not least of which was the undeniable joy evident on the face of football icon Lionel Messi, even though he wasn’t playing.

While fans worldwide are accustomed to seeing Messi’s magic on the field, this Tuesday, they witnessed a different side of the football star. Messi had been left out of this match, a decision that followed after he was subbed out late in the previous game against Ecuador. But this didn’t dampen his spirits or diminish his presence at the match.

As Argentina advanced on their opponents, it was Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez who broke the deadlock, sending a brilliant shot past the Bolivian goalkeeper. The joy of this achievement was evident not just among the players on the pitch, but also on the sidelines. Cameras panned to Messi, who was seated amongst the team reserves and captured his radiant smile. At 36, Messi’s unwavering love for the sport and his country was clear for all to see.

This match had an added layer of complexity due to its location: La Paz. Famously recognized as the world’s highest capital city, it sits at a staggering 3,625 meters above sea level. Playing football at such an altitude poses its own set of challenges, from thinner air affecting stamina to the ball traveling differently. However, Argentina, with its skilled squad, seemed well-prepared. Fernandez, only 22 and already showing the hallmarks of a future star, was particularly unfazed as he celebrated his goal.

Yet, the game was not without its tense moments. Tottenham’s defender, Cristian Romero, became the unfortunate recipient of a particularly nasty tackle from Bolivia’s Roberto Fernandez. It was the kind of challenge that makes spectators wince – the impact, the potential danger – it all looked like a recipe for disaster. Thankfully, the gods of football seemed to be on Romero’s side that day. While visibly shaken, he emerged without a debilitating injury. Roberto Fernandez was shown a red card, an appropriate punishment for the severity of his foul.

Romero’s resilience was especially notable given the recent praises he’s received. Messi, in previous interviews, didn’t hold back in naming Romero as the world’s best defender. This is no small compliment, especially coming from someone of Messi’s stature. It wasn’t just Messi who held this view. Ange Postecoglou, in a recent conversation with talkSPORT, expressed similar sentiments. He commented, “Arguing against Messi’s words is futile. To be honest, the idea of going head-to-head with Romero on the field is daunting. I’ve heard many players admit they don’t even enjoy training against him because of his intense drive.”

Postecoglou further expanded on Romero’s dedication, saying, “Romero embodies the spirit of a true athlete. Every time he steps on that field, whether it’s a casual training session or a high-stakes match, he’s in it with all his heart. That passion, that drive – it’s what sets him apart.”