Barça's past against Barça's present as Messi & Lewandowski meet

FC Barcelona turned 123 years old on Tuesday in the middle of the World Cup. And the best footballer who has ever worn the Blaugrana shirt will be, on Wednesday, the protagonist of a dramatic match at Qatar 2022.

Barça's past the present face each other for a place in the round of 16 of the World Cup. Lionel Messi against Robert Lewandowski. The No.1 of all time, the star who won every possible title over two decades, against one of the best scorers ever who has taken over from him at Camp Nou. In short, an Argentina-Poland game that will mark the future of both teams in the tournament.

The Albiceleste, who started as one of the favourites, need a victory to ensure first place in the group and to not have to worry about what Saudi Arabia do against Mexico. The Poles, who have four points, qualify with a draw. The surprising and humiliating defeat Argentina suffered against the Saudis has left Messi's team unexpectedly on the ropes. There is no margin for error for the two-time world champions if they want to keep aiming for a third star. Messi dreamed of winning his first World Cup in his fifth and, in all probability, final participation in this competition, but Argentina's performances raise doubts.

The best player in history does not want to end his career without getting the only title that is missing from his extensive and brilliant record. He left Barça (or rather, they kicked him out) through the back door. And now he doesn't want to leave elite football without that World Cup that has been so elusive so far. The first step to keep his dream alive involves beating Lewandowski's Poland. The new Barça star cried like a child when he scored his first goal in a World Cup this past weekend. After having scored more than 600 goals in his long career, that goal against Saudi Arabia filled him with emotion than any other. He wants to feel that again against Argentina.

Poland are not among the favourites, but Lewandowski's attacking ability could change the predictions. At the moment, they are only one point away from the round of 16. On Wednesday, they can get it. With Messi's permission, of course. Barça's past against Barça's present. Who will win this epic duel?