Despite the defeat, Frenkie De Jong heaps praises on Lionel Messi after a surprising performance.
Argentina defeated the Netherlands on penalties to advance to the quarterfinal round of the FIFA World Cup.
One of the best assists of the World Cup and a goal in the second half highlighted Lionel Messi’s performance, which earned him the Man of the Match title.
Although Messi’s post-game press conference remarks garnered the majority of the attention, the Argentine’s play versus the Dutch team also received attention.
In fact, Frenkie de Jong, one of the best players for the Netherlands, didn’t hold back when complimenting Messi and even called him the best player ever.
“Of course, yes. When questioned about Messi’s explosive performance in the quarterfinals, de Jong responded, “He’s the greatest football player of all time.
Messi not only scored and assisted, but he also made a penalty kick in the shootout. He was also a livewire throughout the entire game, providing inspiration and leadership in the final third, making it difficult for even de Jong and company to keep a careful eye on him.
De Jong and Memphis Depay ought to rejoin the Barcelona team now that the Netherlands has been eliminated from the World Cup. The two’s World Cup exploits will undoubtedly please the Catalans, and Depay in particular is likely to be in the running for a transfer in the January transfer window.
De Jong, on the other hand, has solidified his position as a pivotal player in Barcelona’s midfield. The onus will be on the Dutchman to take over as the captain of the Barça midfield in the future, particularly since Sergio Busquets’ contract is up at the end of the current campaign.
