Even if Lionel Messi and Argentina don’t triumph in the World Cup final against France on Sunday, that won’t alter the fact that it’s been Messi’s tournament.
He has dragged La Albiceleste kicking and screaming into the showpiece, after the unbelievable shock of losing their opener to Saudi Arabia.
Ever since that seismic turnaround, Barcelona’s former talisman has written his name large, making headlines throughout the tournament.
With the possible exception of Ronaldo disciples, surely no one would deny Leo what would be the most fitting bookmark to his career.
However, his legacy in the game won’t be tarnished if his national team come up agonisingly short again.