Argentina’s talisman Lionel Messi is savouring every moment ahead of record sixth World Cup. Messi will be a key player for La Albiceleste as they look to defend their World Cup crown in the USA, Mexico and Canada.

Argentina registered a 3-0 win against Iceland as Messi returned to action. The veteran scored from the spot kick in his team’s comprehensive win.

Asked if it had sunk in that he will feature in a sixth World Cup, Messi, 38, smiled and answered: “I’ve been enjoying it from the start… I’m happy, savouring every moment and excited as ever.”

Messi had not played in Argentina’s 2-0 win over Honduras as he was suffering from muscle fatigue which he suffered while playing for Inter Miami in the Major Soccer League.

“I felt great,” the Inter Miami star said. “I’d been keen to play for a while, having been carrying that niggle [muscle fatigue] since I arrived. I was eager to get going and shake off the lingering fears you have when you’re carrying an injury, so I could play freely. We’ve got a week left to get everyone fit and ready for the opener.”

Messi is confident about Argentina chances of defending their title.

“We have a lot of hope, as always, whenever a competition begins, especially a World Cup,” he said. “I said at the time that this group wouldn’t let you down, and they proved it this year by competing regardless of the opponent or competition, and they continue to show that they have the same desire and the same enthusiasm to compete.

“It’s a real winning team that always wants more. We’ll take it step by step as always, but with great enthusiasm, hope and conviction in what we’re capable of.”

Argentina will begin their World Cup title defence against Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City.

The Albiceleste will also face Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27, in Arlington, Texas.