Lionel Messi has called his national side 'chokers' ahead of their World Cup campaign in Russia.
The Barcelona attacker was speaking to Argentine outlet TYC Sports when he said that he had concerns about his nation side's chances at the upcoming tournament.
He said: "Any other nation that reaches consecutive major tournament finals would be valued well, but here in Argentina we are called chokers".
At the last World Cup, which was held at Argentina neighbour's, Brazil, Messi brilliantly helped his national side to the final, but Argentina eventually lost out to Germany, a goal during injury time by Mario Gotze sealed their fate.
Messi scored four goals during the tournament and it was observed how the attacker was the nation's major driving force in the competition, that they likely wouldn't have reached the final without their star man.
Argentina have Nigeria, Croatia and Iceland in their World Cup 2018 group this summer. They are clear favourites, but the likes of Nigeria and Croatia could prove tricky. The country will have its sights set on another final, at least. They have phenomenal attacking firepower, where each of their strikers, the likes of Messi, Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuaín, and so forth, are of world class ability.
However, it's always been thought that they are lacking in defence.
With Messi in their side, anything is possible. And with the global superstar facing his last tournament while in his prime, he'll surely want to make the most of it.
Messi has had a relatively tough time with his national side in comparison to his performance at club level. He is the nation's top-scorer but at one time became frustrated and even retired from the national team for a period. He came back after calls from supporters using the Don't Go, Leo slogan.
Either way, we're just happy we'll get to see the star in action this tournament.
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