Zhipan Sport

Quiz: How well do you know birthday boy Messi at World Cups?

Jun 24, 10:21 AM

Argentina great Lionel Messi turns 39 today and has been lighting up the World Cup this summer, but how well do you know his journey so far?

Argentina legend Lionel Messi celebrates his 39th birthday today, and this summer he has been dazzling at the World Cup in Qatar. From his debut in 2006 to his crowning glory in 2022, Messi's World Cup journey is filled with unforgettable moments. To mark his birthday, we've prepared a quiz to test your knowledge of his performances on the biggest stage. Messi made his World Cup debut in 2006 in Germany at just 18 years old. In the group stage match against Serbia and Montenegro, he came off the bench and scored a goal, becoming the youngest Argentine to score in a World Cup. Argentina reached the quarterfinals but lost to Germany on penalties. In 2010 in South Africa, Messi wore the number 10 shirt and was the team's main man. Despite his energetic displays, Argentina were thrashed 4-0 by Germany in the quarterfinals, and Messi failed to score, a major disappointment. The 2014 World Cup in Brazil was Messi's closest shot at the title. He led Argentina to the final, scoring four goals and providing one assist in the group stage and knockout rounds. However, they lost 0-1 to Germany in extra time, and the image of Messi staring at the trophy remains heartbreaking. He won the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player. In 2018 in Russia, Argentina were eliminated by France 4-3 in the round of 16. Messi scored one goal and assisted two, but the team struggled overall. The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was Messi's redemption. After a shock loss to Saudi Arabia in the opener, he scored a crucial goal against Mexico. In the knockout stages, he contributed goals and assists, leading Argentina to the final. They defeated France on penalties, and Messi finally lifted the World Cup, completing his ultimate dream. Messi's World Cup journey is a tale of ups and downs, from a young prodigy to a legendary champion. On his 39th birthday, take this quiz to relive those magical moments.