He’s a national icon for one of the host nations Mexico and he had a season playing for Bolton Wanderers under Big Sam, now Jared Borgetti has shared his thoughts on the biggest event in sport, which kicks off tonight at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.
Mexico’s Jared Borgetti can’t hide his excitement that the world be drawn to his country tonight when the tournament opens with Mexico vs South Africa.
The Mexican goal-king, who scored 46 goals in 89 appearances and played for his country at the 2002 World Cup, has been sharing his thoughts on the biggest talking points ahead of the first ball being kicked.
Borgetti on impact of Messi and Ronaldo
Speaking on behalf of 10bet, Borgetti tempered the expectations around Portuguese idol Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, citing the forward’s age.
“Well, this will be Cristiano Ronaldo’s last World Cup, and he’s certainly not the same Cristiano Ronaldo he was 10 years ago, a decisive player who made a real difference.
Age takes its toll, especially at the highest level, where it’s much harder. But he will be an important player, and his experience will be good for his national team, absolutely.
However, I’m not saying he’ll disappoint. I don’t think we should expect Cristiano Ronaldo to bring another level to Portugal; I think that time has passed. But he can certainly be a player who, at certain moments, can help the team achieve an important result. I don’t think he’ll be a game-changer, nor do I think he’ll go unnoticed. I think he’ll do a good job,” Borgetti said.
“He was more complimentary about Argentina’s Lionel Messi, 38 saying: “Lionel Messi will also be appearing at his sixth World Cup, just like Cristiano Ronaldo. His age will show, the heat will too, and the demands will always be the same for these types of players. But we have to take into account, as I mentioned, his age.
“The quality is there, but a different pace isn’t the best for competing in these games. He’ll have a good impact, especially on the emotional side of his national team, and that’s always important for his teammates, knowing they have a player who makes a difference, who has a great presence. Hopefully, he can help his team reach the top.”
Naming the Golden Boot contenders and picking a winner
Borgetti believes that the Golden Boot will be contested by two of Europe’s most deadly finishers, saying: “The Golden Boot will be hotly contested. One of the contenders could certainly be Harry Kane, and another I think could be Mbappé. For me, I think they’re the candidates to win the Golden Boot.”
He also tipped Kylian Mbappe’s France to go on and win the tournament, concluding: “Saying who will win is difficult, but of the candidates who I think have worked very well in recent years and have a very good generation of players, for me, France is the strongest candidate to win the World Cup.”
The FIFA World Cup starts tonight with Mexico vs South Africa, 20:00.