Erling Haaland has joined the chorus of admiration for Lionel Messi after the Argentine superstar delivered a masterclass in Argentina’s 3-0 opening Group J victory over Algeria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Norway star Erling Haaland's special message to Lionel Messi after historic hat-trick in Argentina vs Algeria
The Manchester City striker shared a Snapchat story reacting to Messi’s first-ever World Cup hat-trick, simply writing “Madman ” while pictured on a flight. Haaland himself scored na brace on his debut against Iraq earlier at night.
Messi opened the scoring in the 17th minute, added a second in the 60th, and completed his treble in the 76th, powering Argentina to a dominant win in their World Cup title defence.
Haaland’s gesture highlights the mutual respect between two of football’s premier strikers. Despite competing in the same Premier League, the Norwegian forward has never shied away from praising Messi’s enduring brilliance, even as the 39-year-old continues to defy expectations on the biggest stage.
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