'Big question': Sharonov doubts Messi's performance against strong teams — World Cup 2026
Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick as Argentina beat Algeria 3-0 in the World Cup 2026 group stage; World Cup goals 16 — equaled Miroslav Klose. Following this, Russia's Roman Sharonov doubted whether Messi would show the same quality against stronger teams. Next match: June 22, Argentina vs Austria.
Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0 in the first match of the World Cup 2026 group stage on 17 June. Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in the match, taking his total to 16 goals at the World Cup and equaling Miroslav Klose's record.
Regarding this, the two-time league champion of Russia, Roman Sharonov, commented on a program of the 'Match TV' channel and said, "Argentina may face difficulties against strong teams. We have to consider Messi's age and the intensity of the league he is currently playing in. How will he play against other national teams, how will the coaching staff use him — that's the big question."
Lionel Messi is about to turn 39 in a week. He has been playing in American Major League Soccer since 2023 for American club Inter Miami.
Argentina's next fixture is June 22: Austria.
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