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Analyst criticizes Messi comparison to NBA stars during World Cup

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 22, 2026, 10:55 PM

Last updated Jun 22, 2026

Analyst criticizes Messi comparison to NBA stars during World Cup

Summary

During the ongoing FIFA World Cup, commentator Owen Hargreaves drew a comparison between Lionel Messi and NBA legends Michael Jordan and LeBron James. This comparison came after Messi's historic goal in Argentina's match against Austria, making him the all-time leader in World Cup goals. Fox analyst Skip Bayless responded to Hargreaves, calling the comparison 'naive' and 'blasphemous,' while defending Jordan's stature against James. As the tournament progresses, Messi continues to play a key role for Argentina.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Messi became the all-time leader in World Cup goals.
•Hargreaves compared Messi to Jordan and James during the broadcast.
•Bayless criticized the comparison, favoring Jordan over James.
•Argentina is competing in the FIFA World Cup as matches unfold.

Latest Updates

10:55 PMYahoo Sports — ‘So Naive, So Wrong’ — Analyst Blasts World Cup Commentator Who Compared Lionel Messi to Michael Jordan, LeBron James

What they're saying

"
Just as the NBA season ended, the FIFA World Cup kicked off and it is captivating fan bases across the globe. Given the timing and the fact that they are both team sports with international appeal, the commentary sometimes overlaps.
— Yahoo Sports

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