Messi Sacrificed Himself At World Cup

Former Argentina coach, Alejandro Sabella, has insisted Lionel Messi sacrificed himself for his country at the World Cup.

Messi’s World Cup performances and his nomination for the best player in Brazil have received much criticism and the debate was revived when Sepp Blatter stated the 27-year-old didn’t deserve the Golden Ball.

Sabella, however, defended the Argentina captain, saying he accepted a deeper role to help the team.

"Messi is an example for the national team," the 59-year-old told Radio La Red.

"He put himself at the disposal of the tame and played in solidarity with his team-mates.

"I commend Messi for the World Cup he had. He put the group first, before the individual, and he personally sacrificed himself for the benefit of the team."

Sabella also insisted Argentina could have won the tournament, if they had been more clinical with their chances in the final against Germany.

"We had to deal with a great physical and mental strain and yet, all we lacked was effectiveness (in front of goal)," he added.

"But that's football. It was an even game and if we'd been more clinical, we would have been champions."

Sabella stepped down as Argentina coach following the World Cup and former FC Barcelona manager, Gerardo Martino, has since taken over.

Under Martino, the Albiceleste beat World Cup champions Germany 4-2, but lost 2-0 to South American rivals Brazil.

Do you think Lionel Messi sacrificed himself at the World Cup? Have your say in the comment section below.