Lionel Messi made a young boy’s dream a reality. Ali al-Zaidawi, a 10-year-old Iraqi boy with one leg, found himself as the main actor in a poignant short film titled “Messi Baghdad.” The film delves into the themes of war, unrest, and the aspirations of Iraqi children to play football, despite the challenges they face.
Ali’s unwavering passion for the beautiful game burns brightly, despite his physical limitations. His ultimate dream was to meet his idol, Lionel Messi. And astonishingly, that dream became a tangible reality when Messi himself took the initiative to travel to Dubai, where he met and engaged in a heartfelt conversation with Ali. This encounter held immense significance for the young boy.
Messi’s presence and support have become a profound source of inspiration for Ali al-Zaidawi. The Argentine superstar’s unwavering determination and exceptional talent serve as a guiding light, motivating Ali to live life to the fullest and never give up on his cherished passion for football.
This heartwarming story transcends the boundaries of sports, emphasizing that football is not merely a game but a powerful force that can uplift spirits, bring dreams to life, and ignite hope in the face of adversity. The meeting between Messi and Ali stands as a shining example of the transformative power of compassion, dreams, and the unifying nature of the beautiful game.