Brazil Legend Ronaldo De Lima Wants Lionel Messi to Flop at 2022 World Cup

• Ronaldo de Lima says he wouldn't support Lionel Messi to win the FIFA World Cup in Qatar due to the bitter rivalry between Argentina and Brazil
• Argentina have been drawn with Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland in Group C as they look to win their first World Cup title since 1986
• The two-time World Champions currently hold the longest active undefeated streak ahead of the World Cup

Legendary Brazil striker Luis Ronaldo De Lima has admitted he cannot bear the thought of Lionel Messi winning the World Cup with Argentina in Qatar this year.

Messi is enjoying a resurgence season with Paris Saint-Germain this term, but will have one year on the Mundial which is less than one month away.

The 35-year-old will be hoping he continues his scintillating club form when he travels to Qatar in November to represent the Albiceleste.

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The Argentine genius has received serious support to finally win the World Cup before hanging his boots.

However, ex-Real Madrid star Ronaldo De Lima has admitted he doesn't want to see Messi win the World Cup with Argentina, despite believing he deserves it.

He told The Guardian: "If he nationalised for Spain. The Brazil-Argentina rivalry is so big. We had incredible battles, with respect, and that’s the loveliest thing in football.

"But Argentina winning the World Cup doesn’t bear thinking about. Does Messi deserve it? Of course he does – but not with my support. I love him and he’ll understand because I’m sure he would feel exactly the same way."

Messi's Argentina have been in splendid form ahead of the quadrennial tournament, unbeaten in 35 matches, the longest active undefeated streak.

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The run, which began in 2019, has seen the Albiceleste win the 2021 Copa America and the Finalissima against Italy, making the South Americans one of the favourites to win this year's Mundial.

The 1986 World Champions have been paired with Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland in Group C as they look to win their first World Cup in 36 years.

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Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Paris Saint-Germain superstar Lionel Messi has singled out five countries he believes are favourites to win the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

Up to 32 teams are scheduled to compete for the global football showpiece when the tournament kicks off later in November.

A number of world football heavyweights will be looking to win the prestigious trophy, with France, who won the last edition in Russia, keen to defend the crown.