Lionel Messi has his sights set on leading Argentina to glory when they take on France in the final of the World Cup on Sunday evening.

While the World Cup in Qatar has been marred by controversy off the field, the tournament will culminate with a thrilling matchup of two of the world’s footballing heavyweights.

Due to illness in their camp, several French players missed training sessions and gave coach Didier Deschamps an unwelcome headache as kickoff approached.

Both Argentina and France are going for a hat trick of titles, with France having been back in the final for the past four years following their victory in Moscow.

Only Italy in the 1930s and Pele’s Brazil in 1958 and 1962 have won back-to-back titles, so for the team coached by Deschamps to do so would be an incredible feat.

However, Messi’s pursuit of the sport’s ultimate prize in what will likely be his final World Cup match takes precedence over any other accomplishments he may have.

The ex-Barcelona star has won every major club honor, including seven Ballon d’Ors, and most recently captained Argentina to the Copa America title.

Messi’s performance at his fifth World Cup has been outstanding as Argentina has rallied from a shocking opening loss to Saudi Arabia. His new teammate, Julian Alvarez, has been equally effective, scoring four goals.

“It is exciting to be in the final, but there is still one step to go,” said coach Lionel Scaloni.

Photo by EPA/Mohamed Messara / Ali Haider