Argentina vs. Nigeria: Lionel Messi Is Ready for International Explosion

Lionel Messi and Argentina are ready to put on a show when they meet Nigeria in a friendly match for the second time in less than a week. Argentina won the first match 1-0, but they controlled the flow, and the score could have been larger. Lionel Messi will make sure it is this time around.

The two teams will meet in Dhaka, Bangladesh on September 6th. Messi seems dedicated to giving the Indian fans their money's worth. 

Messi is wildly popular in India (think Michael Jordan and Michael Jackson combined popular) and the countries affection for him appears to be driving him to new heights in effort and preparation. These adoring fans have been given what is a once in a lifetime chance to see their favorite star, and he wants to deliver.

Argentina reportedly let in around 1,000 Indian fans in what was supposed to be a closed door practice. And once they were in the Argentinians put on a display.

The two sides split into two groups and scrimmaged. Lionel Messi mesmerized the crowd during the scrimmage as his side won 2-0.

This is evidence of Messi growing into his role as a leader with his national team. He is beginning to accept the responsibility of being the heart of the team, and he is taking the honor seriously. Messi has even begun wearing his captain's armband. 

Messi, as quoted on isitkim.com:

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“The responsibility is the same we all have with the national team. I thought it was time to use it and hopefully bring me luck. I’m happy, calm and thankful.”

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Messi is going to be focused and prepared for this match. His teammates will do what they can to get him scoring chances. He will not disappoint.