Lionel Messi's Greatness Draws High Praise From Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Lucas Boland-USA TODAY Sports

Lionel Messi's Greatness Draws High Praise From Zlatan Ibrahimovic

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated Jun 23, 2026 7:33 AM ET

Lionel Messi has showcased his elite skill set in front of the global audience in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Fans, analysts and football legends, including Zlatan Ibrahimovic, praised him on Monday.

The retired Swedish striker shared his thoughts about the Argentinian superstar's five goals in two games. He stressed that he cannot wait to see what the rest of the tournament has in store for Messi.

"It was never in doubt," Ibrahmovic said on Fox Sports. "I mean, you have moments where he looks human by missing the penalty. Then you have the moments when he doesn't look human. That's Messi. This is so far his World Cup.

"And he didn't play against Jordan yet, so I don't know where it will finish."

Lionel Messi of Argentina reacts during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J match between Argentina and Austria at Dallas Stadium.Image Photo Agency/Getty Images

Ibrahimovic could not help but compare his performances in the World Cup to that of Messi's.

"Five goals in two games," Ibrahimovic continued. "I have zero goals in two World Cups, so I'm happy for him and I hope he continues.

"His birthday is in a couple of days, so let him enjoy (it) because we are all enjoying him by seeing him play. Amazing. Just amazing. No words."

Zlatan : “Messi is something else , he has 5 goals in two games already, I have 0 goals in 2 world cups” fairs pic.twitter.com/cmEuRDyo3s
— Ankur (@AnkurMessi_) June 22, 2026

Messi and Argentina won their first two matchups. They defeated Algeria 3-0 on Wednesday, with the Inter Miami superstar recording a hat-trick. He followed it up by scoring Argentina's two goals versus Austria on Monday.

Messi and Co. have advanced to the knockout stage as one of the 32 teams to qualify.

They still have a group stage game left. They will play Jordan on Saturday at Dallas Stadium.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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