Defending Argentina never seems to stop for their goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. As they are all set to face France in the final, they will give everything to make it worthwhile for their GOAT Lionel Messi.
But with the argument not only being static toward Messi but Mbappe is also being considered to give him a run for his money.
Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni was quick to point out that the World Cup Final is much more than a fight between the two PSG superstars.
“To stop Mbappe you need a collective effort. But France is more than just Mbappe. We need to focus on making a good game collectively,” he told reporters.
“The game will be more of a collective effort and not individual effort. Mbappe is a great player, but France has many good players around him and that makes him an even better player.”
But Emiliano feels even by being a collective effort, having the greatest of all time in the ranks only benefits their chances.
“When we won the Copa America in Brazil, the favorite was Brazil, and now people say the French are the favorites. But we have a secret advantage – the greatest player of all time,” said the goalkeeper.
“We don’t feel either superior or inferior to anyone. And as always say, with a good defense, we have many chances to reach our goal.”
Emiliano Martinez was a constant presence in the Argentine lineup from 2021, being a first-hand observer of Messi’s impact.
“I see him very happy. He feels very well on the pitch. I saw a great Messi in the Copa America. He was an exceptional player, one of the best in the tournament,” he stated.
“In this World Cup, he took a step forward from the Copa America. He is better physically and in football terms.
“It was quite difficult to improve on that Messi from Copa America, but he did.
“He is excited, he is full of joy, and this helps us very much.”
