League: LaLiga Sport: Soccer Country: France Category: Scores & Results

Erling Haaland and Zlatan Ibrahimovic admire Messi's World Cup performance

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 19, 2026, 7:35 AM

Last updated Jul 19, 2026

Erling Haaland and Zlatan Ibrahimovic admire Messi's World Cup performance

Summary

During a recent chat, Erling Haaland and Zlatan Ibrahimovic expressed their admiration for Lionel Messi's outstanding performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. At age 39, Messi has achieved 12 goal contributions in just 7 games, guiding Argentina to another final. Ibrahimovic shared his historical respect for Messi, recalling their time as teammates at FC Barcelona. Haaland, younger and still in the early stages of his career, acknowledged Messi's exceptional talents during their conversation. As they discuss Messi's legacy, both players highlight the influence he has across generations of soccer fans.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Messi has 12 goal contributions in the 2026 World Cup.
•Argentina is headed to the final of the tournament.
•Haaland and Ibrahimovic discussed Messi's impact on their careers.
•Messi, at 39, continues to perform at an elite level.
•Ibrahimovic praised Messi's natural talent during their FC Barcelona days.

Latest Updates

7:35 AMYahoo Sports — Erling Haaland and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are stunned by Lionel Messi’s 2026 World Cup run

What they're saying

"
Erling Haaland and Zlatan Ibrahimovic’s recent on-camera chat saw the pair marvel at 39-year-old Lionel Messi’s accomplishments at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Even with the high bar associated with Lionel Messi, he’s shattered expectations with 12 goal contributions in just 7 games in the 2026 World Cup, leading Argentina to another Final.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Barcelona LaLiga Soccer