Brazil legend Rivaldo has most surprisingly given his backing to arch rivals Lionel Messi and Argentina to win the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.<\/p>\n
Argentina are now waiting to square off against European rivals and defending champions France in the final after sealing a comfortable and convincing 3-0 victory over a resilient but goal-shy Crotia that drew a blank in the semi-finals.<\/p>\n
35-year-old PSG talisman Messi\u00a0is currently the joint top goalscorer alongside his equally illustrious PSG strike partner, and France\u2019s, Kylian Mbappe with five goals each\u00a0and has been one of the most inspiring stars of the Qatar tournament.<\/p>\n
The 2002 World Cup winning Brazilian midfielder has revealed that he will nonetheless be cheering for Argentina in the final with Brazil already tossed out of contention, as he believes Messi is definitely worthy of bagging the piece of exclusive silverware that is currently missing from his trophy-laden career.<\/p>\n
While obviously aware he is taking the risk of antagonizing his nation with his public backing of Messi and Argentina to win, Rivaldo still sees it fit and right to pronounce his backing of the diminutive Argentine wizard and La Albiceleste.<\/p>\n
He posted a picture of Messi on Instagram with the caption:\u00a0\u201cWe no longer have Brazil or Neymar Jr. in the cup final so I’ll stay with Argentina.<\/p>\n
\u201cNo words for you Lionel Messi, you already deserved to be World Champion before, but God knows all things and will crown you this Sunday.<\/p>\n
\u201cYou deserve this title for the person you are and for the wonderful football you have always played. I take off my hat and may God bless you.\u201d<\/p>\n
Messi has already snagged four Man-of-the-Match accolades during the tournament and is now in great stead for a chance to bag the Golden Ball, Golden Boot and the coveted World Cup trophy itself.<\/p>\n
The 35-year-old Argentine magician has also overtaken Gabriel Batistuta to become Argentina\u2019s all-time top scorer in World Cup finals\u00a0after netting during their win over Croatia.<\/p>\n
As another highlight, Messi has also currently drawn level with Germany legend Lothar Matthaus\u2019 all-time World Cup appearance record, after making his 25th appearance.<\/p>\n
That means Messi will move to 26 and overtake Matthaus’ record when he plays in the final, which will be on this Sunday.<\/p>\n
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