- Messi honored by Argentina pregame
- La Albiceleste commemorate eighth Ballon d’Or win
- Comes after Inter Miami ‘Noche d’Or’ match
WHAT HAPPENED?
Prior to kickoff against Uruguay, the Argentine was walked out to the center of the pitch and handed an applause by all the fans present. He was given a trophy and a plaque with his name on it, with an official spokesperson thanking him for his achievements and congratulating him on the accolade.
¡Un reconocimiento más para Leo Messi! 🇦🇷
🇦🇷 Argentina 0-0 Uruguay 🇺🇾
🇲🇽🔴https://t.co/xHpiPmdiy9
🇺🇸🔴 https://t.co/vAQlMJ9Q0I
📺 @VIX #SudamericaEnVIX pic.twitter.com/gvF3xdjuvV— TUDN USA (@TUDNUSA) November 17, 2023
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Messi led Argentina to a World Cup title in 2022 – the first of his career. As such, he was awarded his eighth Ballon d’Or and has been recognized across the world for it.
Although it didn’t go to plan, the Agentine’s club Inter Miami held a ‘Noche d’Or’ friendly against MLS side New York City FC to recognize the achievement, while also posting on social media about the win.
Now, he was able to finally be greeted by his fellow countrymen as La Albiceleste look to continue their hot form in Conmebol World Cup qualifying.
WHAT NEXT FOR MESSI AND ARGENTINA?
La Albiceleste will look to claim another three points in World Cup qualifying Thursday night against Liverpool star Darwin Nunez and Uruguay. The two sides sit in spots 1 and 2 in the table, with Argentina edging out by two points.
