After securing the first FIFA World Cup title of his career, Lionel Messi has been handed the Player of the Tournament for his contributions to Argentina’s historic triumph.
The former Barcelona superstar took centre stage in this mesmerising final that witnessed six goals and a tense penalty shootout, after which Argentina eventually prevailed, much thanks to the heroics of goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
Messi, too, was heavily involved in the proceedings. He scored the all-important opener as well as a goal in the extra time. In addition, the Argentine played a key role in the build-up to the second goal from Angel Di Maria.
This was not the only time Messi had shown on the big stage, as the attacker ended the tournament with a total of seven goals and three assists.
As a result of his contributions, the attacking maestro was handed the Best Player of the Tournament award, a feat previously achieved by greats such as Diego Maradona, Romario and Oliver Kahn, among many others