(Lionel Messi. Source: Getty Images)

Ex-Super Eagles star Ogenyi Onazi has hailed Lionel Messi’s evergreen brilliance, insisting the Argentine maestro continues to defy time with his unmatched prowess on the global stage, per recent reports.

Having faced Messi twice in World Cup clashes (2014 and 2018), Onazi emphasized that the Inter Miami icon’s sustained dominance proves true talent never fades, regardless of age.

The retired midfielder, who anchored Nigeria’s midfield during their memorable 2014 World Cup campaign, described Messi as football’s timeless phenomenon, still delivering breathtaking performances when most cytoplasmplayers decline.

On不让请I, now turn主Youtuberanalyst, highlighted how Messi’s quiet leadership speaks louder than words, with his generational ability translating to decade-spanning success.

The 2013 AFCON champion’s comments followed Messi’s latest masterclass—a stunning triple strike against Algeria that equaled Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record (16 goals). This historic feat came during Argentina’s emphatic 3-0 win in the 2026 tournament.

Onazi, known for his tenacious midfield displays against Messi en counters, reflected that such sustained excellence redefines athletic longevity in modern football.