Its not about Messi as much, there's not much to dislike him for this world cup, besides bad PKs, he has been very clinical and precise with his minimalist type movement and attacks.
I found his play last world cup less impressive then this one so far despite last world cup being great at playmaking. But lacking real edge to his individual offense, just living at the pk spot.
What's annoying people is, no its not rigged, the Egyptians are being sore losers (focus for 20 fucking minutes ffs), but CLEARLY they are the most favoured side in this world cup. Almost every game there's significant or small decisions just going their way. People are just asking for more fair refereeing.
But truthfully we should worry about them this much, yeah they showing character with the comebacks. But a team getting almost rocked and shocked by Cabo Verde and Egypt, arent far for this tournament IMO.
Their general play is so mediocre so far this WC. Besides Messi prolific plays they surviving on headers and being too conservative in approach.
First good team they face will really trouble them enough to kick them out.
Which I hope is Colombia next game if they go through now, because I surely do not wanna root for an England win in next stage after that lol. I have not liked an England team since the 96 euro team JuveJay mentioned (when I was too young to have football hate in my heart yet lol).
But honestly this Kane and this Bellingham is not hard to root for if it comes to it. Both very dynamic and likeable stars.