November 14, 2022: The two meet once more for the first semi-final of the Qatar World Cup at the Lusail Stadium. 16 football years have passed during this time. Captain’s band shines on the left hand of both of them. 2 stars who have gone from being poster boys to rocking cameo roles to the top of a nation. If Messi is the soul of Argentina, Modric is the lifeblood of Croatia. For football fans in the small country of Croatia with a population of only 4 million, he is as big as Messi. 2 names who have played in the same era, in El Clásico star wars with Barcelona and Real Madrid; Messi and Modric. Those who were able to see the handshake and hug of the two before the kickoff of the World Cup semi-finals are lucky. Because there may never be another moment like this in world football.
