News Americas, NEW YORK, NY, Fri. June 1, 2018: Fans of Argentina’s national football team are brimming with confidence about their chances at the 2018 FIFA World Cup after their heroes came away with a comfortable 4-0 over Haiti on Tuesday night.
Lionel Messi, the forward and captain of the national team, sent fans at the famed La Bombonera stadium home with smiles on their faces as he bagged a hat-trick.
All 32 teams at this summer’s tournament in Russia will be strong, but Argentine fans are confident that their attacking lineup of Messi, Gonzalo Higuain and Angel Di Maria will help them reach the top when the dust settles.
“I trust Messi and Di Maria. I believe they’ll have good performances. We will definitely go to the finals and we will see,” said Carlos, an Argentina supporter.
“We have excellent players and we are sure to go to the finals. I’m sure Higuain will be the best striker. Definitely,” said Christian, another Argentina supporter.
Fans at the packed La Bombonera saw their heroes off with rousing enthusiasm and support as they head to Europe for final preparations.
“The fans are very enthusiastic. Their applause fueled us and I really appreciate it,” said Higuain.
Although the fans are confident in their team affectionately known as Albiceleste, the players have tried to downplay expectations. Messi told reporters prior to their friendly match that they were not the favorite for this World Cup, causing some concern for many fans.
“I think we need to be realistic about our situation. It was tough for us in the qualifiers and we need training as we just came together. I said we were not the favorite, but it doesn’t mean we won’t fight. Argentina is definitely a good team and our footballers are very capable individuals,” said Messi.
Argentina will start their quest to reach the World Cup final on June 16 when they face Iceland in their first Group D game in Moscow. (SOURCE: CCTV)
