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Messi Under Fire: Is the World Cup King Really Worth the Hype? A Saudi Journalist Joins the Debate

2 April 2026

Messi Under Fire: Is the World Cup King Really Worth the Hype? A Saudi Journalist Joins the Debate
Messi under scrutiny as debate over hype swirls after Argentina's World Cup triumph.

Controversial Claim Sparks Debate

A Saudi journalist, Falah Al-Qahtani, now with Okaz, sparked a heated debate by arguing that Lionel Messi, captain of Argentina and now with Inter Miami, is an overhyped player in the media.

On the "Hajmah" podcast, he said that after Argentina's World Cup win, he remains convinced Messi is overhyped. He noted that while Messi is talented, some praise seems inflated—if he deserves 100%, some fans give him 500%.

He added: "Let's be reasonable—penalties helped Messi and Argentina win the World Cup; he earned penalties in several matches." Messi lifted the World Cup in 2022 in Qatar after beating France on penalties, following a 3-3 draw after extra time.

Punchline 1: If hype were a trophy, Messi would have a shelf full of them.

Punchline 2: Sure, the hype is loud, but Messi keeps scoring louder than the critics.

Author

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who called Messi overhyped?

Saudi journalist Falah Al-Qahtani from Okaz.

Where was this view shared?

On the Hajmah podcast.

What event is cited to frame the claim?

Argentina's 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar and the role of penalties.