Lisandro Martinez: Messi is the greatest in sports history, I can't even beat him at cards

Hupu Football News

4 minutes ago

Hupu, July 27th – This past Sunday, thousands of people gathered on the coastal avenue of Gualeguay, Argentina, to warmly welcome their hometown hero, Lisandro Martinez. The 28-year-old defender had just finished competing with the Argentine national team at the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. In this tournament, Argentina lost 0-1 to Spain in the final, finishing as runners-up.

The welcome ceremony was organized by the local city government. Starting at 3 PM, citizens of Gualeguay and tourists from across the country packed the scene, leaving no space empty. The coastal avenue was filled with blue and white flags. Amidst this sea of football passion, Lisandro appeared wearing the Argentine national team training jersey. Facing his fellow townspeople, the star—described by neighbors as "still as humble as ever"—took the microphone and delivered an emotional speech.

"Thank you all for taking the time to come here. I am incredibly proud to represent my hometown," Martinez said, his voice choked with emotion.

Speaking about the World Cup, which was a mix of regret and glory, he added:

"Since I joined the national team in 2021, we have won many titles. Although it's a pity we couldn't reach the top this time, I believe this team has still gained a lot of valuable experience."

When discussing his career success, Martinez attributed it to two pillars:

"What has supported me to this point is, first, a strong inner will, and second, the companionship of my family. Now, my only wish is to leave my mark on the football world."

Seeing many children in blue and white jerseys at the scene, Martinez also offered words of encouragement to the younger generation:

"My core strength lies in my mindset. I see many kids here with football dreams. Please believe in yourselves, fight bravely, and never give up. There will be obstacles and doubts along the way, but with the support of family, friends, and those around you, dreams will come true."

Revealing Private Friendship with Messi: The "Invincible Champion" Off the Pitch

When the topic turned to captain Messi, the atmosphere reached its peak. Speaking about his experience playing alongside the legendary star, Lisandro did not hold back his praise:

"Leo (Messi) has a unique humility that makes you admire his skills and deeply love him as a person. For me, he is not only the greatest in football history but also the best in all of sports history."

He then shared the relaxed daily life within the national team:

"We built deep friendships by playing 'Truco' (a traditional Argentine card game) and drinking mate tea while chatting."

Someone in the crowd jokingly asked, "When playing cards, do you intentionally let the captain win?" Lisandro laughed and answered decisively:

"Absolutely not! Honestly, I want to beat him too, but the truth is frustrating—he's a genius. He wins at everything and never loses!"

This revelation sparked laughter and applause from the crowd.

National Sentiment and Future Plans

At the ceremony, fans passionately sang traditional Argentine football chants. Lisandro smiled and interacted with everyone. Notably, after the epic semifinal victory over England, Lisandro and his teammates held up a banner reading "The Malvinas Islands are Argentine," a gesture deeply loved by the nation.

Before the welcome ceremony, Martinez had been resting at a nearby estate. Due to a muscle injury sustained in the World Cup final, he had kept a low profile, focusing on recovery. It is reported that in the coming days, he will travel to England to report back to Manchester United.

Source: infobae International Football News

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