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Messi First World Cup 2006
When Lionel Messi made his senior World Cup debut for Argentina national football team in the 2006 FIFA World Cup held in Germany, it signalled the start of a long-term legacy on the global stage. He had earned his first senior cap the previous year and was one of the youngest players in the squad at just 18 years of age. According to records, he played three matches and recorded a goal and an assist. Although Argentina exited in the quarter-finals after a penalty shoot-out loss to the host nation, Messi’s performances gave an early glimpse of the talent that would define his career
Messi Football Jerseys and Kits
The Road to the Tournament
International Debut and Selection
Messi’s senior debut for Argentina came in 2005 and his inclusion in the 2006 World Cup squad marked a rapid rise. As Wikipedia summarises, after his senior debut he was selected for the national team tournament despite his youth. Coach José Pékerman opted to build the team with a blend of experience and emerging talent, viewing Messi as part of the future. He featured in Argentina’s group-stage matches and was used both as a substitute and starter.
Tournament Role and Context
At the 2006 tournament, Argentina were placed in Group C alongside Ivory Coast, Netherlands and Serbia & Montenegro. According to detailed records, Messi’s appearances were limited but meaningful: he entered as a substitute in moments that allowed the coach to integrate him gradually. His goal and assist came in limited minutes — underlining a high impact per minute. Football statisticians record that he registered one goal and one assist across three matches, equating to approximately 121 minutes played overall.
Performance Summary
Statistical Highlights
A notable summary of Messi’s 2006 World Cup involvement is as follows:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 3 matches |
| Goals | 1 goal |
| Assists | 1 assist |
| Minutes played (approx.) | 121 minutes |
These figures reflect that even at a young age, Messi was capable of influencing matches in high-pressure tournaments.
Key Moments
- In one group-stage fixture he entered the match late and was able to provide an assist, reflecting his ability to impact the game from the bench.
- In another appearance he scored his first World Cup goal, making him one of the youngest Argentine players to do so in the tournament. Wikipedia records him as one of the youngest scorers at a World Cup.
- Although Argentina were eliminated in the quarter-final by Germany on penalties, Messi’s tournament served as foundational experience for his future successes.
Significance for Fans and Collectors
Jersey Era Value
For fans of the Argentina jersey and of Messi memorabilia, the 2006 World Cup period holds specific appeal:
- His shirt number at the time was 19, prior to the iconic number 10 he later wore. Collectors searching for the “Messi 19” jersey from the 2006 World Cup era may find it a valuable piece.
- The Argentina national team kit worn at the 2006 tournament is a historic purchase point: owning it connects directly to his first major tournament exposure.
Check out the official Argentina national team kits on jerseys4pro and select those tied to early Messi years for historical value.
Contextualising the Early World Cup Chapter
- The 2006 tournament represents Messi’s introduction to global tournament football; subsequent tournaments (2010, 2014, 2018, 2022) followed. The 2006 iteration can therefore be viewed as the groundwork.
- For newcomers to jersey collecting, “Messi in 2006” provides a narrative: youthful talent, first major tournament, early marker of great things ahead.
- Given the significance of the number 10 jersey Messi later made famous, the 19-shirt era adds depth to a fan’s collection and provides contrast in career phases.
Comparative Perspective with Later Career
Messi’s World Cup journey extended beyond 2006, with increasing responsibility and leadership, ultimately culminating in the 2022 World Cup victory. In contrast with his early tournament:
- In 2006 he played 3 matches; by 2014 he featured in 7 and served as captain; by 2022 he led Argentina to the title.
- His goal output grew: 1 goal in 2006, 4 goals in 2014, 1 goal in 2018, and 7 goals in 2022.
Thus, the 2006 tournament can be seen as the seed of a decades-long World Cup story, and the jersey from this era can serve as a collector’s cornerstone for tracking his evolution.
Conclusion
Messi’s first foray into the FIFA World Cup in 2006 marked the beginning of a global tournament journey that would define his legacy. Across three matches he recorded a goal and assist, and though Argentina did not advance to the semi-finals, the performance laid the groundwork for what followed. For visitors to jerseys4pro, acquiring an Argentina jersey from that era especially the number 19 shirt offers more than just a piece of apparel: it documents the start of an extraordinary career on the world stage. Whether you are collecting for fandom, investment or commemoration, recognising the significance of the 2006 World Cup chapter adds meaningful context to your purchase.