Argentina rallies behind under-siege Messi

ARGENTINA is rallying around captain Lionel Messi as the South American giant prepares for the crucial Group D clash with Croatia.

Messi made an unhappy start to the World Cup on Saturday, missing what would have been a winning penalty as Argentina was held to a 1-1 draw by minnow Iceland.

It was a result that has renewed doubts about Argentina’s ability to mount a sustained challenge at this World Cup, four years after reaching the final in Brazil.

Another adverse outcome tomorrow morning Australian time and many may even start to consider the unthinkable – that Argentina could be on its way out at the group stage, mirroring its shock first-round exit in 2002.

Legend Diego Maradona called the Iceland result a “disgrace” and warned coach Jorge Sampaoli he would not be able to return to Argentina with similar performances.

Adding to the sense of dis- appointment, Messi’s missed penalty was accompanied by 11 unsuccessful shots, the most in a World Cup game without return by a single player since Italy’s Luigi Riva in 1970.

Argentina’s players, however, have been quick to close ranks around the Barcelona superstar.

“We are all with him, he knows that he can count on the support of all of us more than ever,” said Argentina striker Paulo Dybala. “We are here to help him every moment, and of course we will be at his side.”

Defender Cristian Ansaldi insisted Messi was in good spirits. “We all know what Messi represents to our team and to our country,” he said. “Not only is he the best player in the world on the pitch, he is also the best player off the field. He’s in good shape.”

Sampaoli is reportedly considering several changes.

WE ARE ALL WITH HIM, HE KNOWS THAT HE CAN COUNT ON THE SUPPORT OF ALL OF US MORE THAN EVER