By Rune Gjerulff@runegjerulff

Messi admits surprise over Germany's World Cup group stage elimination

Lionel Messi was "surprised" that Germany didn't make it through from the group stage of the World Cup.
Lionel Messi has discussed Germany's shocking second successive World Cup group stage exit.

Hansi Flick's team finished third in Group E with four points, behind Japan and Spain, due to a worse goal difference than the latter.

"I was surprised that they were out," Messi told the media after Argentina's 2-1 round of 16 win over Australia, according to Marca.

"They had many top players, and they are a young team that is always among the best in a World Cup.

"It's surprising that they were out again in the first round, but that shows how difficult the World Cup is.

"It's no longer the name of the national team that matters, but what you see on the pitch. Everything is becoming more and more equal."

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