Madrid, July 18: Spain legend Andres Iniesta believes stopping Lionel Messi completely will be almost impossible in Monday’s FIFA World Cup final against Argentina, urging La Roja to focus instead on imposing their own style of play and maintaining the confidence that has taken them to the title clash.
Spain head into the final unbeaten after conceding just one goal in seven matches, while defending champions Argentina arrive as the tournament’s highest-scoring side, led by Messi’s eight goals and four assists.
Iniesta, who scored Spain’s winning goal in the 2010 FIFA World Cup final, feels Luis de la Fuente’s side must concentrate on making life difficult for Argentina rather than trying to eliminate Messi from the game.
“Shutting him down completely is impossible. It will be more about how much Spain can hurt Argentina with their own game, creating chances, and being clinical when they come along,” Iniesta said. (IANS)
