Andres Iniesta Insists Messi’s World Cup Success Won’t End GOAT Debate

  

Andres Iniesta is of the opinion that the GOAT debate will still rage on, despite Lionel Messi's recent World Cup triumph. 

Messi inspired Argentina to beat France 4-2 on penalties to claim the 2022 World Cup, after a 3-3 draw in a thrilling final at the Lusail Stadium in Doha, Qatar. 

The South Americans raced into a two-goal lead through Lionel Messi and Angel Di Maria, before two Kylian Mbappe goals saw the defending champions pull level in spectacular fashion. 

Messi restored Argentina's lead in extra time before Mbappe completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot for France, to send the game to a penalty shootout. 

La Albiceleste eventually emerged as champions of the world, putting Messi among the pantheon of footballing greats, per Daily Mail. 

However, the veteran striker's former FC Barcelona teammate Iniesta believes that arguments will still linger. 

"I am sure anyone who doesn't view Messi as the best will find an excuse to keep seeing it that way, regardless of whether he won the World Cup or not," Iniesta told ESPN. 

Iniesta believes Messi is the best with or without a World Cup triumph, and says winning the coveted Mundial would be a huge source of happiness for Messi beyond what others think. 

"Not just for him, but for Argentina as a country. They are always in the running and the fact they've won it in the way they did, makes it totally deserved."