Spain star Lamine Yamal has hailed Lionel Messi for his incredible performances at the 2026 World Cup, saying no one expected the 39-year-old to dominate at this level.

Messi has scored eight goals at the tournament and created the most chances of any player, cementing his status as one of the standout performers. Yamal said: “Leo Messi has been INCREDIBLE so far.

We all know who Messi is, but no one expected this sort of level at the World Cup.” Messi’s performances have positioned him perfectly for a record ninth Ballon d’Or should Argentina go all the way. He will now hope to lead Argentina past Switzerland in the quarter-finals.

Key Points:

Messi, at 39, is defying age with record-breaking performances
He has scored eight goals and created the most chances at the tournament
His dominance could secure a record ninth Ballon d’Or
Young stars like Yamal are looking up to Messi as a role model
Argentina’s title hopes rest heavily on Messi’s shoulders

Messi will lead Argentina against Switzerland in the quarter-finals. Even if Argentina exit, his performances will be remembered as one of the greatest individual showings in World Cup history.

Sources: Mundo Deportivo

Super Eagles legend Mikel Obi has warned Argentina to expect a tough test against Switzerland in their 2026 World Cup quarter-final clash. Speaking on Fox Sports, Mikel described the Swiss as a “difficult and unpredictable opponent” who are “so compact, so tight, they don’t give you too many chances.”

He said: “This Swiss team, every time you watch them, they are a very awkward team to play against; you never know exactly what you’re going to get from them.” Argentina, who survived two high-octane escapes against Cape Verde and Egypt, are favourites on paper but must be wary of Switzerland’s disciplined defensive setup.

Key Points:

Switzerland’s compact, tight defence could frustrate Argentina’s attack
Argentina have been vulnerable in previous matches, needing late comebacks
Messi is the key creator and goalscorer for Argentina, but Switzerland could neutralise him
Mikel believes Argentina’s style is predictable while Switzerland is unpredictable
The match could be tighter than expected despite Argentina’s star power

Argentina face Switzerland in the quarter-finals on Saturday. The defending champions must be prepared for a disciplined, defensive Swiss side that could spring a surprise.

Sources: Fox Sports