Video: After the hat-trick… Henri. Messi and this man come from the moon.

France legend Thierry Henry has praised Lionel Messi’s performance in Argentina’s win over Algeria to kick off the 2026 World Cup, stressing that the tango captain and Cristiano Ronaldo belong in a completely different category from other players.

Messi scored three hat-trick goals in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria in the early hours of Wednesday, taking the tournament’s top scorers early and continuing to make World Cup history.

Henry said during his speech on Fox Sports. “Listen again, this man and the man who will play tomorrow (Cristiano)… They both come from the moon.”

“Argentina also reminded us that they are still the reigning champions, we mustn’t forget that.”

The French star continued. “But Leo is different… It’s about a completely different subject.”

Henry did not forget to refer to his historical rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, as he said:

Henry’s comments came after a historic night for Messi, who scored his first World Cup hat-trick and also took his tally to 16 goals at the tournament, equaling the record for the most goalscorers in World Cup history.

Ronaldo is set to begin his career with Portugal in the current match against Congo, with public anticipation high to know the Portuguese star’s response to his historic rival Messi’s exclusive offer in the first round.

Read also: