Spain’s winger Lamine Yamal said it is incredible to still see Lionel Messi starring in the ongoing FIFA World Cup. Messi has been in fantastic form as he has netted eight goals in five matches of the quadrennial event and he is currently the highest goal-scorer in the tournament.

After missing a penalty in the round of 16 against Egypt in the first half, Messi lifted his game in final few minutes of the game. The Argentina captain provided an assist to Cristian Romero in the 79th minute and then himself scored after four minutes to equalise for La Abliceleste.

“Incredible,” Yamal, 18, told Spanish outlet El Mundo Deportivo when asked of Messi’s World Cup performances. “Everyone knows who Messi is, but no one expected him to be playing at such a high level. I’m really happy for him.”

Messi has scored in nine consecutive World Cup games since 2022 as he has been in top form in the showpiece event.

Yamal also expressed his delight to see childhood heroes like Neymar and Cristiano Ronaldo take part in the World Cup.

“I’m happy for Neymar, even though he’s no longer here, and for Cristiano [Ronaldo],” Yamal said. “They shaped the childhoods of all of us who are playing now.”

Yamal played for all 90 minutes against Portugal after regaining his match fitness after injury.

“I’d been out for almost two months, and it’s not the same as when you’ve played seven games in a row,” Yamal said. “I need to keep touching the ball, keep playing, keep racking up minutes, and, obviously, that game will come.

“I think I can do better. I’m very hard on myself. I’m not satisfied with what I do. I’ve never been the best player in the group stage. I’m not worried about that. I know I have opportunities to prove it.

Spain will face Belgium in the quarterfinals on Friday in Inglewood, California.