World Cup 2022: Ronaldo’s Super Fan Piers Morgan Reacts to Messi’s First Ever World Cup Knockout Goal

• Lionel Messi has earned praises from Piers Morgan after scoring his maiden goal in the knockout phase of the FIFA World Cup
• Messi's goal against Australia takes his overall World Cup tally to nine goals, becoming Argentina's second-highest scorer at the World Cup
• The 35-year-old Argentina genius is eyeing the World Cup trophy, the only major title missing from his glittering trophy cabinet

Piers Morgan was full of praises for Lionel Messi after the Argentina captain marked his 1000th game of his professional career with a sublime goal.

Messi, 35, produced an impressive performance to inspire La Albiceleste to a hard-fought 2-1 win against a determined Australian side.

The Paris Saint-Germain superstar was named in the starting lineup for their World Cup last-16 clash against the Socceroos.

The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner was, by his wonderful high standards, quiet for the opening 35 minutes.

Messi reveals the stunning way his kids reacted to loss against Saudi Arabia

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But the diminutive Argentine managed to break the deadlock with a moment of individual brilliance.

How did Messi score against Australia?

Messi received a pass from inside the box before caressing the ball into the bottom left corner beyond the outstretched hand of Matthew Ryan in post for Australia.

Piers Morgan praises Messi

The goal caught the attention of Morgan, who is widely known for his particular obsession with Messi's arch-rival, Cristiano Ronaldo.

The British broadcaster and journalist couldn't hold back his admiration for the Argentine genius' goal, as he tweeted:

"Brilliant goal by Lionel Messi in his 1000th game. Wonderful player."

Morgan is a pro-Ronaldo fan

Morgan is a firm believer that Ronaldo is a better footballer the Messi. The ace journalist has been vocal in his belief that the Portugal captain ranks above the little magician in all aspects of the game.

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His relationship with Ronaldo contributed to the Real Madrid lgend conducting a tell-all interview with him, Per Mirror Sports.

His bold remarks ultimately saw the forward leave Old Trafford and he's now on the lookout for a new club whilst harbouring hopes of World Cup success.

Messi's Argentina tipped as favourites

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Argentina had been considered one of the favourites for the World Cup trophy in Qatar. Lionel Scaloni's side came into the tournament against the backdrop of a 35-match unbeaten streak.

However, an opening day loss to Saudi Arabia made the squad have a quick reality check. The team bounced back with identical wins against Poland and Mexico to reignite hopes of a first World Cup trophy since 1986.

Apart from a star-studded squad led by the evergreen Lionel Messi, there are some series of coincidences that show Argentina might just go all the way and lift the trophy on December 18th.