France star Theo Hernandez insists “Lionel Messi doesn’t scare us” ahead of World Cup final

Theo Hernandez has insisted that Lionel Messi doesn’t scare France as they prepare to take on Argentina in Sunday’s World Cup final.

The defending champions sealed a place in the final after a 2-0 win against the tournament’s surprise package Morocco. Hernandez and Randal Kolo Muani were the scorers.

The talk of Messi against Kylian Mbappe will dominate the pre-match build-up as the two Paris Saint Germain teammates are set to go head-to-head for World Cup glory.

Mbappe's France teammate, Hernandez has said that Messi doesn’t scare them.

The Bayern Munich full-back told RAI Sport: “Playing two World Cup finals in a row is an incredible moment. We did a good job, it was hard, but we are in the final.

“We will work hard to win this final. Now we have to think about the final. I'm tired, but it's nice to win a World Cup semi-final.

“Now let's recover for Sunday. Messi doesn't scare us, Argentina are an incredible team but we have a few days to work.”

Messi has arguably been the best player of the tournament so far and he produced a vintage display during his side’s semi-final clash against Croatia.

The 35-year-old scored a brilliant penalty to give his side the lead and provided the assist for Argentina’s third goal after a mesmerising solo run.

Out of Argentina’s six matches so far, Messi has been named player of the match on four occasions.

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Messi said Sunday’s final will be his last World Cup game.

He said: “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.

“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.”

France vs Argentina will take place at the Lusail Stadium on Sunday, with kick-off at 3pm UK time.

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