Hat-trick hero, Lionel Messi, has hailed Argentina’s qualification for Russia 2018 and said it would have been “crazy” if they did not qualify for the World Cup after he guided the two-time champions to next year’s tournament.
Outside of the CONMEBOL qualification places and on the brink of elimination, Messi scored three goals as Argentina overcame Ecuador 3-1 in Quito and secured a berth at Russia 2018 last Tuesday.
Occupying sixth position prior to kick-off, Argentina’s hopes of at least claiming a play-off spot were dealt a major blow when they conceded after just 38 seconds.
But five-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi saved the day, scoring twice in the first half and again just past the hour-mark to see Argentina – runners-up in 2014 – to their 12th successive World Cup.
“There was always the fear of coming here to play. Luckily, we could react and we managed to play well,” Messi told reporters.
“We were calm, we achieved the goal and that is the most important thing. Thanks to God, we fulfilled the objective.
“It would have been crazy not to be in the World Cup. The group deserved to qualify.”
Messi continued: “We were away from the press for a while and the people. I think it served to get us closer. If we all go hand in hand, everything will be easier.
“It was unfair what happened in the World Cup and the two Copa Americas. We ended up suffering to enter this World Cup and hopefully we will get it once and for all.
“Enjoy the qualification and prepare little by little. The team will change, there will be another and it will grow.”
