World Cup 2018: 8 players who disappointed in Russia

Lionel Messi (RW: Argentina/Barcelona)

Messi leaving the pitch after their 4-3 defeat to France

Hailed as the G.O.A.T., this looked to be Lionel Messi’s last chance to lead Jorge Sampaoli’s men to World Cup glory after losing agonisingly to Germany in extra time in 2014’s final. After 675 minutes of World Cup football without a goal, he finally netted against Nigeria in the group stage.

Messi produced another two assists before Argentina crashed out following a 4-3 defeat to France. It wasn’t a terrible output from four games but we’ve come to expect so much from the little magician. With one goal from 14 attempts, including a penalty miss against Iceland, this is a tournament that will leave a sour taste in Argentine mouths.