Pedri hailed Lionel Messi's impact at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, claiming that he hoped for a final showdown between Spain and Argentina. The defending champions beat Cape Verde in their Round of 32 clash and will face Egypt in the Round of 16. Meanwhile, the reigning European champions defeated Austria and are set to face Portugal in the Round of 16.
Pedri spoke about Lionel Messi ahead of Spain's Round of 16 clash vs Portugal. (AFP)
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For Argentina, Messi has defied logic. He is 39 years old, and it would have been fine if he had not performed as he has been playing in this tournament. He is on top of the Golden Boot race with Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe. They have scored seven goals each.
Speaking to AS, Pedri said, "I am enjoying him. I already enjoyed him when I trained with him every day. What he is doing is crazy."
"The things he is doing at his age can only be done with the quality he has. For me, he is the best player in history."
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For Spain, it is too early to think about facing Argentina in the final, as that is the only possible route to face the CONMEBOL side. But Pedri thinks it's possible.
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For Spain, it is too early to think about facing Argentina in the final, as that is the only possible route to face the CONMEBOL side. But Pedri thinks it's possible.
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"That dream would be top because it would mean we are in the World Cup final. It would be a good sign," he said.
Pedri has also developed as a player. Since Hansi Flick took over at Barcelona, Pedri has become more influential in the middle of the park.
"Above all, he started putting me at the base of the play so that I could be in contact with the ball," he said.
"It is true that, for example, [former Spain boss] Luis Enrique also asked me to drop deep a lot, to touch the ball and feel comfortable there. But Flick changed my position on the pitch and, above all, he transmitted to us the mentality of winning, of competing. That is what he has changed, and he has transformed the mentality of the team. We have to thank him, he has changed Barca’s mentality," he added.
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The game against Portugal will be Spain's toughest test in this World Cup. Just like Portugal, Spain was also held to a draw in their opener. Portugal drew with DR Congo 1-1. Meanwhile, Spain were held to a goalless draw by debutants Cape Verde.
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results.
A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.
Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Durand Cup Final Live. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series.
Stay updated with the latest sports news, including latest headlines and updates from the Durand Cup Final Live. Catch all the action from tennis Grand Slam tournaments, follow your favourite football teams and players with the latest match results, and get the latest on international hockey tournaments and series.
Home/Sports/Football/Pedri sends bold Spain vs Argentina FIFA World Cup final message after stunning Lionel Messi admission
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