Lionel Messi’s journey as a footballer has been unparalleled and has inspired millions across the globe. The Argentinian legend has achieved all the possible accolades as a footballer and is now enjoying the final years of his career. Amongst his diverse achievements, one particular honour was subject to a tense competition with Chelsea legend, John Obi Mikel.
The emergence of Lionel Messi into international football came with the 2005 Under-20 FIFA World Cup in the Netherlands. Messi, who had turned 18 during the course of the tournament finished the event as the top goalscorer with six goals to his name. Argentina met Nigeria in the final, which was represented by another talented teenager in the form of John Obi Mikel. The two were in contention to lift the coveted Golden Ball and the result of the final would prove to be a key factor in the race.
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Unsurprisingly, the Barcelona man turned out to be the hero, scoring two goals from the penalty spot and ensuring a 2-1 victory. The triumph also crowned Messi as the Player of the Tournament and his Nigerian counterpart was awarded the Silver Ball, which did not please Mikel at the time. “You stole the Golden Ball from me. I deserved it,”, were the words of the midfielder to Lionel Messi at the coronation ceremony. Messi, being humble as always, even offered to exchange their trophies later on.
Lionel Messi and John Obi Mikel revisit the moment during the 2018 FIFA World Cup
John Obi Mikel revealed on his Obi One Podcast that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remembered their Under-20 encounter and had a quick chat with the former Chelsea man during the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Years after their famous matchup in the Netherlands, the pair were battling it out for qualification in Russia, where Messi said to Mikel, “Hi, Golden Boy. I still have the photo of us together at the coronation”. The Nigeria captain was quick to recall the heartfelt yet humorous moment.
Almost two decades down the line since the 2005 Under-20 World Cup, John Obi Mikel will have little doubts and complaints regarding Messi’s recognition as the best. The 37-year-old has firmly cemented himself as the greatest in recent years and is now focused on finishing his club career on a high by ensuring a successful season with the MLS club, Inter Miami.