Young Lionel Messi fan wearing plastic bag jersey found in Afghanistan

    By Hilary Whiteman, CNN

    Updated 1805 GMT (0205 HKT) February 11, 2016

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    Murtaza Ahmadi, 5, gained worldwide fame after being photographed wearing a plastic bag with Lionel Messi's name on it. He and his family have fled rural Afghanistan for Pakistan after receiving threats, his father told CNN.
    Photos: Lionel Messi's biggest fan?
    Murtaza Ahmadi, 5, gained worldwide fame after being photographed wearing a plastic bag with Lionel Messi's name on it. He and his family have fled rural Afghanistan for Pakistan after receiving threats, his father told CNN.
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    Murtaza wears the autographed Lionel Messi Argentina shirt given to him by the soccer superstar and UNICEF. He had been pictured in his native Afghanistan wearing a striped plastic bag with the star's name and number written on it to replicate a shirt.
    Photos: Lionel Messi's biggest fan?
    Murtaza wears the autographed Lionel Messi Argentina shirt given to him by the soccer superstar and UNICEF. He had been pictured in his native Afghanistan wearing a striped plastic bag with the star's name and number written on it to replicate a shirt.
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    UNICEF Afghanistan representative Akhil Iyer presents the thrilled Murtaza with his gifts from Messi, the Argentine star who plays for Barcelona.
    Photos: Lionel Messi's biggest fan?
    UNICEF Afghanistan representative Akhil Iyer presents the thrilled Murtaza with his gifts from Messi, the Argentine star who plays for Barcelona.
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    Murtaza dribbles as a UNICEF staffer takes on the role of goalkeeper.
    Photos: Lionel Messi's biggest fan?
    Murtaza dribbles as a UNICEF staffer takes on the role of goalkeeper.
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    Murtaza points proudly to the dedication and autograph from Messi, who scored twice for Barcelona in their Champions League win over Arsenal in London.
    Photos: Lionel Messi's biggest fan?
    Murtaza points proudly to the dedication and autograph from Messi, who scored twice for Barcelona in their Champions League win over Arsenal in London.
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