Argentina left it very late but they will be in Russia, next summer.
Thank god.
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Messi celebrates after scoring for Argentina. Image: PA
And ahead of the 2018 World Cup, Lionel Messi has named the one team he hopes his nation avoid.
Messi produced heroics for Argentina against Ecuador in the last round of South America qualifying games. He bagged a stunning hat-trick as La Albiceleste secured their spot in the summer showpiece.
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Where would Argentina be without Messi?! Image: PA
Many teams will be hoping to stay away from Argentina for as long as possible. But what sides are they fearing?
Well, Messi has identified Spain, Brazil, Germany and France as the favourites while pin-pointing Spain as the team he wants to avoid.
"The worst that could happen to us would be to draw Spain at the group stages," Messi told TyC Sports via Geo. "I would prefer to avoid them, they'd be tough opponents."
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The scenes after Messi guides his side to Russia for next summers tournament. Image: PA
The Barcelona talisman not only thinks they are the strongest team, but also have the best individuals.
"I think that at the moment, they're the strongest teams who give the best impressions, those who are playing best, with the best individuals."
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Spain boast the likes of David De Gea, Sergio Ramos and Gerard Pique in goal and defence, while Julen Lopetegui also has the luxury of David Silva, Marco Asensio and Alvaro Morata, among many others.
Some of the stars for Spain. Images: PA
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Meanwhile, Messi also spoke about the tense qualifying stage.
"I always believed we'd get there, but I thought we would have tied up qualification before the Ecuador game," he added.
Who'll Argentina get in the World Cup? One things for sure we can't wait.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Football News, Football, FIFA, World Cup 2018, Lionel Messi, Argentina, World Cup