Qatar 2022: I will play my last match on Sunday — Messi

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has announced that he will make his last World Cup appearance on Sunday, December 18.

At age 35, the seven-time Ballon d'Or winner has led his Argentine side to another World Cup final following their resounding 3-0 victory over Croatia in the first semi-final clash at the Lusail Iconic Stadium on Tuesday, December 18.

The PSG star gave La Albiceleste the lead from 12 yards in the first half and teed up Julian Alvarez for Argentina's third in the 69th minute.

The Barcelona legend has so far scored 5 goals in the tournament heading into Sunday's final, only his teammate Kylian Mbappe has managed the same number of goals.

Speaking in a post-match interview, the 35-year-old noted that Sunday's clash will be his last WC appearance in the light blue and white jersey.

“I am very happy for finishing my journey in World Cups in a final, to play the last game in a final. That is really very gratifying,” he said.

“Everything I lived in this World Cup has been emotional, seeing how much it has been enjoyed in Argentina.

Messi and his Argentina side will be aiming to win the country's third World Cup title against either Morocco or France on Sunday, December 18 at the Lusail Iconic Stadium.