Messi, Martinez make Argentina favourites: Hamza
Football often produces the most compelling storylines, and as Argentina stand one win away from retaining the World Cup, Bangladesh midfielder Hamza Choudhury believes two familiar names -- Lionel Messi and Emiliano Martinez -- will be key to their hopes against Spain in the final at New York New Jersey Stadium.
Speaking during the "bKash Presents The Dream Cup with Hamza" programme, Hamza said Argentina's biggest strength lies not only in their quality and experience but also in the presence of a captain capable of deciding the biggest matches.
"Argentina have quality all over the pitch, experience in the biggest matches, and a winning mentality that has been built over the years. But ultimately, when the final whistle approaches, everyone will look towards one man. Lionel Messi brings the belief, the leadership and the fear factor that changes games. If Argentina are to lift the World Cup once again, I believe their captain will once again be at the heart of the story," he said.
At 39, Messi remains as influential as he was during Argentina's triumph in Qatar. His performance in the dramatic semifinal comeback against England once again underlined his enduring ability to shape the biggest occasions.
Reflecting on Messi's career, the Leicester City player added: "Messi has redefined the game with his vision, intelligence and ability to produce moments that no one else can. When I look back at everything he has achieved, his journey feels like a football fairytale. Yes, he was blessed with incredible natural talent, but talent alone doesn't keep you at the top for nearly two decades."
For Hamza, however, every great team also needs a dependable last line of defence, and he believes Martinez fills that role perfectly.
"Behind Messi, Argentina have another player who gives them enormous confidence -- Emiliano Martinez. He is a goalkeeper built for the biggest occasions. The bigger the stage, the stronger he seems to become. Whether it's making a crucial save late in the game or handling the pressure of a penalty shootout, Martinez always looks calm and fearless."
Beyond the individual stars, Hamza believes Argentina's greatest asset is the chemistry within the squad.
"What makes Argentina such a dangerous team is not just individual brilliance. This squad has been together for a long time and understands each other perfectly. They know what it takes to win because they are the reigning world champions. That success also brings pressure, but this group has shown they know how to handle it."
After 103 matches, the 2026 World Cup reaches its conclusion with a historic first final between the reigning champions of South America and Europe. Spain have arguably been the tournament's most complete team, but Argentina possess something equally valuable -- the experience of knowing how to win football's biggest prize.
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