Messi and Maradona: Stats Show Argentina Icons Are the Most Creative Players in World Cup History

• No footballer in World Cup history has created more chances than Messi and Maradona
• The Argentinian pair are miles clear of the rest of the pack having created 67 chances each
• That's nearly double that of Johan Cruyff, Luis Figo & Neymar who also feature in the top 24

Argentina legends Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona are the most creative players in the history of the World Cup, it has emerged.

Messi has been in blistering form at the World Cup, finding the back of the net for the South Americans against Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Australia and the Netherlands.

The 35-year-old is bidding to make it to the final for the second time after losing the 2014 tournament final on penalties to Germany.

And according to data outlined by Twitter @VisualGame, the Paris Saint-Germain forward has matched his fellow countryman Maradona on 67 chances created in World Cup matches.

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Former West Germany star Wolfgang Overath came in third spot after creating 59 chances, whiles Germany's 1990 World Cup-winning captain Lothar Matthaus is fourth on the list, thanks to his tally of 49 chances created.

Fan gets Messi tattoo

An Argentina fan has inked Messi's memorable moment during the game against the Netherlands in the quarter-final of the World Cup.

The Paris Saint Germain forward appeared to be taunting the technical bench of the Netherlands led by Louis van Gaal.

And in a show of love and admiration for Messi, a fan known as Nico Melana inked the moment on his body forever.

Melana also promised to tattoo more special moments from the upcoming semi-final clash against Croatia on Tuesday.

Ronaldo excited about Messi

Dutch fans spotted wearing Messi shirts ahead of World Cup knockout tie

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Sports Brief earlier reported that Ronaldo Nazario has admitted he will be excited should Lionel Messi win the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Ronaldo's Brazil - touted as tournament favourites - bowed out of the competition in melodramatic fashion, conceding a late equalizer before losing in a penalty shootout to Croatia.

With Argentina billed to face Croatia in the semi-finals, the Brazil football icon disclosed he will be conflicted should Messi win the Mundial, owing to the long-standing rivalry between La Albiceleste and his home nation.