"It is very special that we're witnessing this" - England star Declan Rice hails Lionel Messi for his performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup

× England star Declan Rice has hailed Lionel Messi for his stunning performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Messi has scored five goals in just two games for Argentina, despite nearing 39 years of age. Ad Lionel Messi created history at the FIFA World Cup as he became the all-time highest goalscorer in the history of the tournament, after his brace in Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria, despite a penalty miss earlier in the game.

The stellar display came after Messi scored his first-ever hat-trick at the World Cup in La Albiceleste's opening 3-0 win over Algeria. La Pulga has scored all five of Argentina's goals in this World Cup so far. Ad Trending In an interview via beIN Sports, England midfielder Declan Rice heaped praise on Lionel Messi, claiming that everyone is lucky to witness such brilliance from the legend at this age.

He said (via AFC Stuff): "You have to say, what Lionel Messi is doing at the World Cup, it’s very special that we’re witnessing this. Even as a neutral, as a football lover & fan, it’s incredible to watch him." Ad Given Messi's unstoppable form, Argentina remains a major contender to defend their World Cup title after their fairytale run in 2022.

La Albiceleste have already qualified for the Round of 32. Their final group stage match against Jordan is scheduled on June 26. Lionel Messi confesses he's "tired" when asked about his favourite FIFA World Cup goal Messi - Source: Getty In the post-match press conference, Lionel Messi was asked to name his favourite FIFA World Cup goal after he broke the record to become the all-time highest scorer in the tournament's history.

However, Messi had no such favourite and instead admitted he was too tired. Ad "I'm not sure. Honestly, today, I don't remember.

Honestly, I'm tired and with low strength, and it's difficult to think, so no. I'm enjoying this moment and wanting to go be with my teammates," Messi said (via Yahoo Sports). Since Argentina has already qualified for the Round of 32, coach Lionel Scaloni might make the decision to rest Messi for the upcoming final group stage game against Jordan.

However, Messi is in a race to win the Golden Boot at the World Cup, especially if he continues this momentum. In that sense, he may start once again or come off the bench for some minutes. More clarity will come when reports about the lineups are out.

As of now, La Albiceleste have begun the 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a great display. All focus will now be on the knockouts to make it to the final. × Was this article helpful?

Thank You for feedback Quick Links More from Sportskeeda Edited by Pratyasha Sarkar England star Declan Rice has hailed Lionel Messi for his stunning performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Messi has scored five goals in just two games for Argentina, despite nearing 39 years of age. Ad Lionel Messi created history at the FIFA World Cup as he became the all-time highest goalscorer in the history of the tournament, after his brace in Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria, despite a penalty miss earlier in the game.

The stellar display came after Messi scored his first-ever hat-trick at the World Cup in La Albiceleste's opening 3-0 win over Algeria. La Pulga has scored all five of Argentina's goals in this World Cup so far. Ad Trending In an interview via beIN Sports, England midfielder Declan Rice heaped praise on Lionel Messi, claiming that everyone is lucky to witness such brilliance from the legend at this age.

He said (via AFC Stuff): "You have to say, what Lionel Messi is doing at the World Cup, it’s very special that we’re witnessing this. Even as a neutral, as a football lover & fan, it’s incredible to watch him." Ad Given Messi's unstoppable form, Argentina remains a major contender to defend their World Cup title after their fairytale run in 2022.

La Albiceleste have already qualified for the Round of 32. Their final group stage match against Jordan is scheduled on June 26. Lionel Messi confesses he's "tired" when asked about his favourite FIFA World Cup goal Messi - Source: Getty In the post-match press conference, Lionel Messi was asked to name his favourite FIFA World Cup goal after he broke the record to become the all-time highest scorer in the tournament's history.

However, Messi had no such favourite and instead admitted he was too tired. Ad "I'm not sure. Honestly, today, I don't remember.

Honestly, I'm tired and with low strength, and it's difficult to think, so no. I'm enjoying this moment and wanting to go be with my teammates," Messi said (via Yahoo Sports). Since Argentina has already qualified for the Round of 32, coach Lionel Scaloni might make the decision to rest Messi for the upcoming final group stage game against Jordan.

However, Messi is in a race to win the Golden Boot at the World Cup, especially if he continues this momentum. In that sense, he may start once again or come off the bench for some minutes. More clarity will come when reports about the lineups are out.

As of now, La Albiceleste ha