New Delhi, July 20 -- US President Donald Trump backed Lionel Messi ahead of the FIFA World Cup final on Sunday, saying it was "hard to bet against" the Argentine superstar as defending champions Argentina took on Spain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Speaking to Fox Sports before the match, Trump declined to predict a winner but praised Messi's recent performances, his vision and precision, while also describing him as one of football's all-time greats alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Pele.

"I hate to get involved, it doesn't matter so much. The head of Argentina is a friend of mine. He's done a terrific job... but it's hard to bet against Messi," Trump said. "I watched that pass... it was exactly perfect. He's great."

Trump also rev...