A reporter told Lionel Messi what he means to the world in post-match interview, it's beautiful
A reporter thanked Lionel Messi for bringing happiness to so many people's lives in one of the best post-match interviews at this winter's World Cup and beyond.
The 35-year-old is just one step away from completing football after Argentina strolled past Croatia on Tuesday night to reach the World Cup final.
Messi, who scored one of the best penalties of his career before assisting Julian Alvarez, has been at his majestic best in recent weeks.
And to recognise the impact he's had on not just Argentina, but the entire footballing world, Television Publica reporter Sofia Martinez decided to say what many people are thinking right now.
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Martinez, who works for the publicly owned Argentine television network, didn't hold back. So what was said?
As translated by Twitter user @ksoolina, Martinez began: "The last thing I want to tell you and it's not a question, but I just wanted to say the World Cup final is coming and sure, we all [Argentinians] want to win the cup.
"I just want to tell you that no matter the results, there's something that no one can take from you, and it's the fact you resonated with Argentinians, every single one. I'm being serious.
"There's no kid who doesn't have your team flannel, no matter if it's a fake, real or a made up one. Truly, you made your mark in everyone's life. And that, to me, is beyond winning any World Cup.
"No one can take that from you and this is my gratitude, for the amount of happiness you bring to a lot of people."
She added: "I seriously hope you take those words into your heart because I really believe that's more important than winning a World Cup and you already have it. So thank you, captain."
How good was that? Messi also revealed that Sunday's final against either France or Morocco will be his last in an Argentina shirt.
"I am very happy for finishing my journey in World Cups in a final, to play the last game in a final. That is really very gratifying," he said after Argentina's 3-0 win against Croatia.
"Everything I lived in this World Cup has been emotional, seeing how much it has been enjoyed in Argentina.
"There are a lot of years from this year to the next one. I don't think I will be able to do that. To finish this way is brilliant."
He added: "We are going to do our best, as we have done up until now, so that this time it really happens - we really win it."
"I have been enjoying it the past few years, being with the national side. I am really enjoying everything that is happening to us.
"To get the Copa America, to reach the World Cup with 36 games unbeaten, and to finish all that trajectory in a final is just incredible.
"I hope the people in Argentina enjoy themselves and what we are doing. They shouldn't doubt we are giving absolutely everything."
Thoughts on that interview with Argentine television network Television Publica? All we know is, this man deserves it all after such an incredible career.
Topics: Lionel Messi, Argentina, Football World Cup, Croatia
Jack Kenmare