Qatar World Cup: Argentina 'Doesn't Play Great Football' But Want Messi To Win, Says Ronaldo

Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario has claimed Argentina "doesn't play great" soccer but he will be happy if Lionel Messi wins the FIFA World Cup.

Messi, who confirmed before the World Cup that this would be his final attempt at the coveted trophy, will once again captain Argentina in the semi-final in Qatar. The Argentinian forward came close to winning the title in 2014 when his team made it to the final, but ended up losing 1-0 to Germany.

Argentina failed to go past the Round of 16 stage in the 2018 edition. They had lost to eventual champions France.

With four goals in five matches, Messi is the joint-second leading scorer this World Cup and his form would be crucial for Argentina ahead of their clash with last time's runners-up Croatia.

In an interview, former soccer star Ronaldo said he wouldn't be happy if Argentina won the World Cup. He also praised the Men in White and Blue's "incredible desire."

"I would be happy if Messi won the World Cup. I would not be happy, as a Brazilian. We all deserve it. Football is playing and winning. Nobody is going to give you anything. Not for his story, not for anything. He has a chance, of course. Argentina doesn't play great football, but they have an incredible desire, they all run a lot together, and they all have aggression," Ronaldo said.

"And then they have Messi, who when he approaches the area is very decisive. Personally, I would be happy for him if he wins it," the Brazil great added.

Messi has won everything on offer at the club level before leaving his boyhood club FC Barcelona in 2021. The 35-year-old forward ended his trophy drought with Argentina last year when he led them to the Copa America title. He finally succeeded after losing three finals in the tournament.

Argentina will face off against Croatia in the semi-final Tuesday at Lusail Stadium.