By Akinwale Kasali

Most Soccer fans, enthusiasts and analysts had predicted that Robert Lewandowski will be crowned the FIFA Ballon d’OR winner, following his impressive performance for his Bundesliga German side, Bayern Munchen, last season, scoring a record 41 goals in the league last season.

But World Soccer Governing Body, FIFA, has a different opinion.

Surprisingly, Paris Saint Germain and Argentina forward, Lionel Messi has been crowned the 2021 World Footballer of the Year, beating Lewandowski, Jorginho, Karim Benzema and Ngolo Kante to the award for a record Seven times.

Messi had led his Argentine National team to the Copa America triumph in the summer, winning his first major trophy at Senior National Level with Albacelestie.

Lewandowski won the Striker of the Year Gong, while Barcelona and Spain midfielder, Pedri won the Young Footballer of the Uear Award with Alexia Putellas winning the Ballon d’Or Feminin among others.