Even In Defeat, Messi Draws Acclaim

The frenzy surrounding the football World Cup has died down with the final match on July 19. It set one record after another. With its brilliant display, Spain lifted the WC trophy, breaking the hearts of Argentina and its fans across the globe. Argentina perhaps played the most ruinous game in its WC history. It was shocking and never expected. Was it the same team once helmed by Maradona? Or is it the same squad that is really captained by Lionel Messi, considered the greatest footballer of all time? La Roja controlled the ball most of the time and passed it quickly to their teammates, only to leave Albiceleste staring, frustrated. Spaniards choked Messi, disallowing the fluid ball to roll near him. The defending champion was left rudderless. Spain dominated throughout the game by playing in the tiki-taka style that was refined and popularised by Barcelona and executed by the Spanish national team.