Ex-Super Eagles captain shares tactical tips but warns it takes more than just marking to stop Argentina’s star man

Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has spoken out on how defenders can try to keep Lionel Messi quiet at the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. Troost-Ekong, who has faced Messi at international level, explained that stopping the Argentine legend is about more than just physical defending — it requires focus, teamwork, and a smart tactical approach.

While full details of Troost-Ekong’s comments or any specific match examples were not included in the available report, he stressed that defenders must remain switched on for the full ninety minutes when up against Messi. The ex-captain suggested that a single lapse in concentration can be costly, as Messi is capable of punishing even the smallest mistake.

For Super Eagles fans dreaming of a famous World Cup scalp, Troost-Ekong’s insight underlines just how difficult it is to neutralise one of football’s greatest ever players. Nigeria have struggled to contain Messi in past meetings with Argentina at previous tournaments, and his influence remains a major threat going into 2026.

No direct quotes or official statements from Troost-Ekong or current Super Eagles coaching staff were provided in the source article at press time. The Argentine camp also had not issued any response regarding the Nigerian defender’s tactical advice.

Nigeria’s next confirmed World Cup qualifying fixture details were not reported in the available information. Fans will be watching closely for updates on potential match-ups between the Super Eagles and Messi’s Argentina side as the tournament approaches.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/story/2026-fifa-world-cup-ex-super-eagles-troost-ekong-explains-how-to-stop-messi-2026062222200302946

Messi’s wife breaks her silence on social media, calling his achievement a ‘privilege’ for their family and fans

Lionel Messi’s historic World Cup record has sparked an outpouring of emotions, with his wife Antonela Roccuzzo finally breaking her silence online to pay a heartfelt tribute. The final score and specific match details were not reported at press time. However, Roccuzzo took to social media after Messi’s latest milestone, describing it as ‘a privilege’ to witness his journey and achievements.

While the full context of Messi’s new World Cup record was not detailed in the available reports, Roccuzzo’s message has resonated with football fans worldwide, especially those in Nigeria who continue to follow Messi’s legendary career. The tribute marks one of the rare occasions she has spoken publicly about her husband’s footballing exploits, adding a deeply personal touch to his latest feat on the global stage.

At press time, neither Lionel Messi nor any member of the Argentina national team coaching staff had issued additional statements regarding his record or Roccuzzo’s tribute. Reactions from Nigerian football experts and Super Eagles players have also not been documented in available sources.

Argentina’s next World Cup fixture, including venue and date, was not specified in the report. Fans across Nigeria and beyond will be watching closely as Messi continues to push boundaries and inspire both on and off the pitch.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/story/what-a-privilege-messis-wife-antonela-roccuzzo-breaks-silence-with-tear-jerking-tribute-after-his-historic-world-cup-record-2026062221414154464

Messi’s double strike sets new World Cup milestones, but the final score and match details remain unconfirmed.

Lionel Messi broke multiple records after scoring twice against Austria in a 2026 FIFA World Cup fixture. The match, which drew global attention, saw the Argentine captain add to his legendary status with a brace that rewrote the tournament history books. However, the final score and exact minutes of Messi’s goals were not reported at press time.

The details of how the game unfolded, including other key moments, scorers, or any decisive turning points, were not confirmed in available reports. What is clear is that Messi’s two goals against Austria propelled him to new World Cup records, though specifics regarding those records were not stated in the source material.

For Nigerian fans following global football stars and their milestones at the World Cup, Messi’s achievement stands out—even without full match details. With Super Eagles supporters always keen to compare Nigeria’s talents on the world stage, Messi’s continued dominance highlights the level required to make history at this tournament.

Neither Lionel Messi nor Argentina’s coaching staff had issued a statement on the record-breaking night at press time. Similarly, there was no official reaction from Austria’s camp or from FIFA about the specific nature of the records broken.

Argentina and Messi will look ahead to their next group stage fixture as fans await further confirmation of match results and more detailed statistics from this headline-grabbing World Cup encounter.

Source: https://www.pulsesports.ng/story/2026-fifa-world-cup-all-new-records-broken-by-messi-following-brace-against-austria-2026062220131220911