Indian football star Sandesh Jhingan has lauded Argentine icon Lionel Messi for cementing his status as the highest goalscorer in World Cup history, adding that the milestone felt like absolute destiny.
Serving as a studio analyst for Zee 5 during the FIFA World Cup 2026, Jhingan shared his perspective after Messi’s crucial brace guided Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria. The performance pushed Messi to 18 career World Cup goals, secured Argentina’s passage to the round of 32, and broke Miroslav Klose’s previous record of 17 tournament goals.
Speaking to ANI, Jhingan noted the poetic timing of the feat, which occurred on the anniversary of Diego Maradona’s famous ‘Hand of God’ goal against England in 1986.
“I think it is an incredible achievement. Sometimes, how we say in football, it comes written from above. I think it was destined for him. In 1986, Maradona scored the ‘Hand of God’ goal against England, the same day, which was one of the best goals in World Cup history. Breaking the record on the same day and scoring 18 goals, I think it was incredible. And also, more than that, it is a great achievement for Argentina. They have qualified for the next round,” Jhingan said.
Jhingan impressed by Argentina’s defensive stability
Beyond the attacking brilliance of their captain, the veteran Indian defender highlighted Argentina’s defensive stability, pointing out their two clean sheets in two games during the tournament.
“Also, for their defence, I think a lot of people do not acknowledge it or don’t appreciate it enough. But they are a very solid team defensively. In the last 9 matches, they have scored around 25 goals, I think, 25-26. And they conceded only once. So, I think Argentina is looking very strong. And of course, when you have a talisman like Messi, it is just a joy to watch them and see how they are doing. And I am sure the country will be very happy and proud,” he added.
Argentina are top of their group and will face Jordan in the last group game of the tournament before shifting their attention to the round of 32.
(With ANI inputs)
