Netherlands star Denzel Dumfries kept it real with a briliant answer to a journalist’s question about Lionel Messi ahead of the World Cup quarter-final clash with Argentina.
The Dutch and the Argentinians will face off at the Lusail Stadium on Friday with a World Cup semi-final place at stake.
Apart from Argentina supporters, many football fans around the world are rooting for the South American champions as they want to see Messi lift the trophy to add to his already stellar career.
Ahead of the clash, Netherlands full-back Dumfries was asked about the possibility of dumping Messi and Argentina out.
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The journalist asked: “Do you realize that when you eliminate Messi, you don't just put Argentina in mourning, but the whole world?”
“I think there are 16 million people in The Netherlands whom we don't put into mourning,” Dumfries replied.
When told that’s the only exception by the journalist, the full-back simply replied: “That’s who we play for right?”
The Inter Milan player has been in fine form this tournament and played a huge role in helping his side get the better of the United States in the last round.
Dumfries was named the player of the match after his stunning performance against the USMNT, where he provided two assists whilst also scoring once during the 3-1 win.
Speaking ahead of his side’s match with Argentina, Dutch boss Louis van Gaal spoke about a potential weakness in Messi’s game.
He said: “Messi is the most dangerous creative player, he is able to create a lot and to score goals himself. But when they lose the ball he doesn't participate much, this gives us chances.”
When asked about whether he has any special plans to stop the Paris Saint Germain star, Van Gaal said: “You will see on Friday. I won't tell you.”
Netherlands vs Argentina will kick off on Friday 9 December at 7pm UK time, with the winner set for a semi-final date against either Croatia or Brazil.
Topics: Netherlands, Argentina, Lionel Messi, Football, Football World Cup
Marcus Chan