@FootynewsJohn Obi Mikel still recalls the exact moment after the Under-20 World Cup final against Argentina where the awards were handed out. Messi took home the Golden Ball while Mikel ended up with the Silver Ball, but the Nigerian defender felt he was the one who actually deserved the top prize. He walked right up to Messi and told him in Spanish that he stole the Golden Ball because he was better than his opponent. The Argentine responded with total humility, explaining that the committee made the decision rather than himself, while also praising what Mikel did for Nigeria. Later on, Messi even offered to swap the trophies, suggesting Mikel take the Golden Ball and give him the Silver one instead.

@FootynewsJohn Obi Mikel still recalls the exact moment after the Under-20 World Cup final against Argentina where the awards were handed out. Messi took home the Golden Ball while Mikel ended up with the Silver Ball, but the Nigerian defender felt he was the one who actually deserved the top prize. He walked right up to Messi and told him in Spanish that he stole the Golden Ball because he was better than his opponent. The Argentine responded with total humility, explaining that the committee made the decision rather than himself, while also praising what Mikel did for Nigeria. Later on, Messi even offered to swap the trophies, suggesting Mikel take the Golden Ball and give him the Silver one instead.