Emiliano Martinez explains why Argentina have 'advantage' in World Cup final

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has acknowledged that many people will view France as the favourites for this Sunday’s World Cup final – but insists La Albiceleste have an advantage that will give them the edge in the contest.

Argentina beat Croatia 3-0 to book their place in Sunday’s final, while France saw off a spirited Morocco side after defeating England in the quarter-finals.

While many fans and pundits are backing Les Bleus to become the first team to win consecutive World Cups since Brazil in 1962, Aston Villa stopper Martinez believes the presence of Lionel Messi could give his side the edge in Sunday’s clash at the Lusail Stadium.

Speaking to reporters in the build-up to the match, Martinez said: “People may say France are the favourite, but we have an advantage having the greatest player of all time.”

Martinez was of course referring to Messi, who at the age of 35 has rolled back the years in Qatar with a series of scintillating displays.

The PSG forward is tied with France’s Kylian Mbappe in the race for the golden boot with five goals, while he also sits joint-top of the assists leaderboard with three.

Having already confirmed this will be his last World Cup, Messi will be determined to end his Argentina journey with the greatest honour of all and the only trophy to elude him thus far in his distinguished career.