Follow Us on Google
More praise has continued to trail Lionel Messi’s perfect start to the current World Cup campaign, with the latest coming from Brazilian legend, Rivaldo.
Messi, who clocked 39 today, grabbed a brace as Argentina saw off Austria 2-0 in their second Group J clash on Monday, becoming the highest goalscorer in World Cup history.
On June 17, the eight-time Ballon d’Or announced his arrival at the tournament in emphatic fashion, scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 thrashing of Algeria.
In an Instagram post on Wednesday, Rivaldo expressed his admiration for Messi’s performance that belie his age.
He noted that anyone who truly loved the game must admire the Argentine star’s performance.
Rivaldo harped on Messi’s dedication and skill at an advanced age for a professional footballer.
Other News
“I played football for many years, and when you see such beautiful football, when you see a player so dedicated at nearly 39 years old doing what he has been doing, it is truly admirable,” Rivaldo said.
“Of course, we all support our own national team, and I’m not going to wish for Argentina to win. But when you see a great player like Messi, anyone who truly loves football has to admire him. What he has done and continues to do is spectacular.”
Rivaldo, a 1999 Ballon d’Or winner and member of Brazil’s 2002 World Cup-winning squad, added: “With all due respect, Messi, what you do on the pitch is out of this world. It is a privilege for all of us football lovers to be able to follow such an extraordinary career.”
The former Barcelona star has previously voiced admiration for Messi, including during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, where he publicly backed Argentina after Brazil’s elimination.
Argentina, who currently top Group J, face Jordan in their final group match on June 27.
