Lionel Messi recently paid tribute to the legendary Diego Maradona by donning the kit that Maradona wore during his last goal for Argentina, scored against Greece in the 1994 World Cup. This poignant moment is particularly significant, as Maradona’s tournament ended in controversy after he tested positive for ephedrine.
Messi, who led Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, has often been compared to Maradona, especially in his home country. By posing in the iconic shirt, Messi reinforces the symbolic connection between the two footballing greats, both of whom wore the No. 10 jersey for Argentina.
Now playing for Inter Miami in the United States, Messi is enjoying a successful start to his career in MLS. He scored a stunning 90th-minute winner in his debut against Cruz Azul in the Leagues Cup and followed it up with two goals in a 4-0 victory over Atlanta United.
With the 2026 World Cup approaching, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, Messi’s future participation remains uncertain. At 36, he has suggested that the upcoming tournament might be too late for him, stating in a recent interview, “I think not. This was my last World Cup. I’ll see how things go, but in principle, I won’t go to the next World Cup.”
As Messi and his new team prepare to face Orlando on Wednesday night, the football world continues to celebrate his legacy and the impact of both him and Maradona on the sport.
