Young Lionel Messi fan wearing plastic bag jersey found in Afghanistan

    By Hilary Whiteman, CNN

    Updated 1805 GMT (0205 HKT) February 11, 2016

    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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