FIFA World Cup 2022: Lionel Messi is human like us, says Netherlands goalkeeper Noppert earlier than quarter-final

FIFA World Cup 2022: Netherlands’ outspoken goalkeeper Andries Noppert has refused to construct up Lionel Messi forward of their quarter-final conflict. The 6ft 8in shot-stopper has referred to as Lionel Messi simply one other human being.

Doha,UPDATED: Dec 7, 2022 23:33 IST

Lionel Messi misses penalty in FIFA World Cup 2022. (Courtesy: Reuters)

By India Today Web Desk: Netherlands are set to face Lionel Messi Argentina within the quarter-final of the FIFA World Cup 2022 on Friday night, 9 December. Set to be performed within the Lusail Stadium, this excessive depth conflict might change into the top of the World Cup dream for the legendary Argentine captain.

Messi, who was at his best possible towards Australia within the Round of 16 fixture, the place he ran the present. The left-footed former FC Barcelona participant has proven that he can nonetheless create magic within the pitch and consultants have pegged his staff as one of many favourites to elevate the trophy this yr. Netherlands however have been mesmerised by the brilliance of Cody Gakpo, whose sheer will and energy has received Netherlands residence from tough conditions.

Netherlands have been a balanced outfit with robust gamers all through their line-up. Their goalkeeper Andries Noppert debuted within the FIFA World Cup and has been among the best within the present version of the event. Noppert has allowed two objectives in 4 matches and saved 15 of 17 pictures on course, an 88.2% save proportion that’s second-best within the event behind Tunisia keeper Aimen Dahmen, who saved 9 of 10.

Speaking forward of the sport, Noppert mentioned that he’s able to face Lionel Messi if the Argentina star takes a penalty kick in Friday’s World Cup quarterfinal match.

“He’s the same like us. He’s a human,” the Netherlands goalkeeper mentioned Wednesday.

Messi has scored 21 objectives in 26 penalty kick makes an attempt for Argentina amongst his 94 worldwide objectives. He transformed his spot kick to place Argentina forward within the opening 2-1 loss to Saudi Arabia, then had his penalty saved by Poland goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny as Argentina gained 2-0 to succeed in the spherical of 16.

“It’s about the moment,” Noppert mentioned. “He also can miss, and we see it to start with of this event.”

The 28-year-old Noppert was in purpose within the opening 2-0 win over Senegal, the second Dutch participant to make his worldwide debut at a World Cup and the primary since midfielder Dick Schoenaker in 1978.

Edited By:

Kingshuk Kusari

Published On:

Dec 7, 2022