Spain forward Mikel Oyarzabal has singled out Lionel Messi as the tournament's standout striker ahead of his country's Round of 16 clash with Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo. The Real Sociedad captain made the declaration during an appearance on Spanish radio programme El Partidazo de COPE.
Oyarzabal, 29, stressed that Messi transcends the traditional role of a number nine. "I wouldn't really call Messi a striker because he's everything football is, but I'd still choose him anyway," he told reporters.
The Spanish winger has impressed throughout the tournament himself, scoring twice in Spain's 3-0 demolition of Austria in the Round of 32. That victory brought his World Cup tally to four goals.
Oyarzabal has now netted 17 times across his last 16 appearances for Spain, putting him in contention for the Golden Boot. His form has been nothing short of remarkable on the international stage.
Messi, at 39, continues to defy age with a remarkable showing in Qatar. The Argentine legend netted his 20th goal in an earlier round of the tournament, extending his competition record for most goals ever scored.
That strike brought Messi's current World Cup tally to seven goals. He's now found the net in an impressive eight consecutive World Cup matches.
The veteran playmaker's continued excellence underlines why Oyarzabal chose him over traditional strikers. His ability to influence play while delivering goals remains unmatched in the competition.
Spain will need to be at their sharpest when they face Ronaldo and Portugal in their upcoming knockout encounter. The midfielder's recognition of Messi's quality highlights the calibre of attackers on display at this World Cup.
