Watch: Messi overcome by emotion as Argentine anthem plays

If there were any doubts that Lionel Messi is feeling the pressure after missing a penalty during Argentina’s frustrating loss to Iceland in its World Cup opener, they were put to bed as the Argentine anthem played ahead of Thursday’s matchday 2 clash with Croatia.

Just watch.

Yes, that’s not quite crying Messi, but the Argentine ace has clearly come down with a severe case of the feels. Especially when you consider that the Barcelona superstar isn’t typically known for his outward displays of emotion, during the anthem or at any other time for that matter. But who can blame him? Argentina has underachieved for years during which the Albiceleste has become entirely too over-reliant on the mercurial playmaker.

Argentina wouldn’t even be at this World Cup if it weren’t for a Messi hat trick on the final day of qualifying. But while the entire Argentine team was disappointing in the opening draw with World Cup minnows Iceland, Messi has come in for particularly harsh criticism taking a weak, throwaway penalty kick that gifted Iceland keeper Hannes Halldorsson with an easy save.

At the time of writing, Messi and Argentina’s World Cup hopes hang in the balance as they face a talented Croatia team in the second round of group play.

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