"I Thought They Were Messi's Age Mates?"Fans React To 2005 WYC Photo With Messi

Nigerians have taken to social media to react to a throwback photo of Lionel Messi alongside Mikel Obi and Taiye Taiwo. 

The trio were the best players at the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship which was hosted by the Netherlands. 

Lionel Messi led Argentina to with the tournament for a fifth time, following a 2-1 win over Nigeria in the final. 

The 18-year-old scored twice from the spot to take his tally to six as he also claimed the top scorer’s award at the competition. 

He went on to win the golden ball award for the best player of the tournament, while 18-year-old Mikel Obi from Nigeria claimed the silver ball award as the second-best player.

 Taiye Taiwo who was about 20 years of age at the time claimed the bronze ball. 

About 17 years later, while Mikel retired, Messi remains active playing at the top level. 

The 35-year-old recently led La Albeceleste to the FIFA World Cup title in Qatar. He is also on course to winning his eighth Ballon d’Or title. 

Last year, Taiwo joined the Finnish club SalPa, and has managed to feature in just six matches for the club. He is now 37 years old. 

And Nigerians have taken to social media to react to a throwback of the stars. 

Just over 17 years since the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship:

• Lionel Messi
• John Obi Mikel
• Taye Taiwo pic.twitter.com/AquvghwDI3

— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) December 19, 2022

One said:

 “Them never use correct age, that be why them all retire long time. You can’t cheat nature.”

 Another added: 

“I remember this tournament so well. Taiwo played a goal kick from his end. It ended far beyond Argentina’s goal. Goal kick to Goal kick.” 

A fan queried: 

“Please where is Taye Taiwo and Mikel Obi?

 "I thought they were once Messi’s age mates in under age football? 

"Abi Nigeria football different from other countries own?" 

Source: SportsBrief