Lionel Messi has revealed that he still bears the sad memory of losing the 2014 World Cup but hopes Russia 2018 brings good tidings for him.

The Barcelona forward led a team of Argentine players that had lost three cup finals – 2014 World Cup lost to Germany and back to back Copa America final lost to Chile.The five-time Ballon D’or winner was instrumental for his country who almost missed the chance of qualifying for Russia 2018 – scoring three goals against Ecuador.

After Argentina 3-0 win of Ecuador, head coach, Jorge Sampaoli said that “football owes Messi a World cup.When Messi was asked to comment on his coach assertion that football owes him a World Cup in an exclusive interview with fifa.com, the Argentine captain laughingly agreed with his coach.

”Yes, I did hear it, and he said it to me too. I hope football does end up paying me! (laughs).”

Meanwhile, Messi has said that his side 4-2 loss to the Super Eagles of Nigeria in a friendly match last month would count for nothing when the two sides lock horns once again in Russia next year.

Speaking on Argentina’s Group D opponents in Russia 2018,  Messi added:  “Nigeria one day they score four goals, the next one, they leave plenty spaces for you to do anything.