Lionel Messi will get a chance at a fairytale ending after reaffirming that Sunday’s final with Argentina will be his last World Cup match.

“I am very happy for finishing my journey in World Cups in a final, to play the last game in a final. That is really very gratifying,” the 35-year-old told reporters after Argentina’s 3-0 win over Croatia on Tuesday, according to BBC Sport.

“Everything I lived in this World Cup has been emotional, seeing how much it has been enjoyed in Argentina.

“There are a lot of years from this year to the next one. I don’t think I will be able to do that. To finish this way is brilliant.”