Lionel Messi praised Argentina goal hero Martin Palermo after the Albiceleste’s 2-0 victory over Greece, which secured top spot in Group B. The World Player of the Year also had uncharacteristically harsh words for referee Ravshan Irmatov, and admitted that he couldn’t wait to join Martin on the World Cup scoresheet.
“You can expect absolutely anything from that guy”, Messi told Ole shortly after the final whistle blew and referring to the Boca forward, who converted The Flea’s saved shot for an incredible World Cup debut goal. “He comes on and sticks the ball in the net, he’s a phenomenon,” Leo laughed, who put his own frustration at being unable to net so far in South Africa to one side as he leaped into the 36 year old’s arms.
Messi did not however have such kind words for referee Irmatov, who he accused of not punishing Greece sufficiently for a multitude of fouls- of which he was the principal victim. “He let everything go for them, he supported all of their play and he didn’t let us play, favouring the team who didn’t want to play football. We were fighting against Greece and the referee,” the playmaker blasted.
And Leo also admitted he wanted his own goal, after impressing in the Group stages without being able to make the net bulge. “I hope it comes in the last 16 against Mexico. The most important thing is we continue on the right track as a team. That a goal hasn’t come doesn’t worry me too much; I would like them to hit the back of the net, but it is not the end of the world.”
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