Messi Takes Responsibility For His Performance In 2018 World Cup; Here's What He Said

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has taken responsibility for his performance in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, stressing the importance of having a great start.

Recollecting Argentina's 1-1 draw with Iceland in their tournament opener in Russia, Messi said had he converted the penalty successfully, things would've been different for La Albiceleste.

Going into the World Cup 2022, Argentina are on an incredible streak as they remain unbeaten in 35 games. Messi has also been in excellent form for both club and country, making Argentina one of the favorites to win the tournament, which is due to begin on Nov. 20 in Qatar.

Messi has netted at least two goals in Argentina's last three fixtures, including scoring all five goals in their 5-0 win over Estonia in June, Sportskeeda reported.

"First game in the World Cup. The first 15 minutes, the anxiety, and nerves, for everything that happened to get to that game. Then you let go, but the first game is very important and gives you peace of mind. I always said that if I converted the penalty (against Iceland) and we started winning, everything would have been different. That's why it's important to have a good start," Messi told Argentine outlet DIRECTV Sports, according to Infobae.

In World Cup 2018, Messi-led Argentina finished in second place, behind eventual finalists Croatia in Group D. They next faced off against France in the Round of 16, losing 4-3. France were the eventual champions as they defeated Croatia 4-2 in the grand finale.

Messi, who is yet to win the World Cup, came close to the coveted trophy in 2014. However, Argentina ended up losing 1-0 in the final to Germany.

The former Barcelona skipper finally won his maiden senior international trophy with Argentina last year when they defeated Brazil in the final to claim Copa America 2021. Before that, Messi had lost the Copa America final thrice in his career, including defeats in two straight finals (2015 and 2016).

Messi also recently named France and Brazil as his favorites to win the Qatar World Cup. He listed out five teams that he believed were serious contenders, which did not include Argentina.

Lionel Scaloni-managed Argentina are in Group C of World Cup 2022, along with Poland, Mexico, and Saudi Arabia. Messi and Co are set to begin their campaign on Nov. 22 against Saudi Arabia.