Ahead of their upcoming match against Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Spain forward, Mikel Oyarzabal has identified Lionel Messi as the best striker in the tournament.
The Real Sociedad captain discussed the iconic Argentine playmaker during an appearance on the Spanish radio program El Partidazo de COPE.
When asked to name the best striker in the current World Cup, the 29-year-old chose to recognize Messi as more than merely a goalscorer, rather than selecting a conventional number nine.
He said (via AlbicelesteTalk), “I wouldn’t really call Messi a striker because he’s everything football is, but I’d still choose him anyway.”
Oyarzabal is also having an impressive tournament, having netted twice in Spain’s 3-0 victory over Austria in the Round of 32.
This brought his total to four goals in this World Cup and 17 in his last 16 appearances for Spain. His outstanding performance has placed him in contention for the Golden Boot alongside the player he praised.
Lionel Messi, at the age of 39, scored his 20th goal during Argentina’s Round of 32 match against Cape Verde. This goal increased his tally to seven in this tournament.
The exceptional Argentine has further extended his record for the most goals scored by any player in the history of the tournament.
Additionally, it marked an impressive eighth consecutive World Cup match in which he has found the net.
World Cup 2026: ‘He’s everything’ – Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal names best striker
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