Nigerian clergyman Emmanuel Iren has taken to Instagram to react to Lionel Messi’s stunning hat trick performance against Algeria at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, expressing amazement at the Argentine star’s continued brilliance.
In his post, the Celebration Church International (CCI) founder admitted he was left speechless by the feat. He described Messi as a player that will be deeply missed whenever he retires.
He recalled that fans had simply hoped Messi would score at least three career World Cup goals to draw level on the all-time scorers list, but instead, the forward achieved that milestone in a single match, despite his age.
Pastor Iren used the opportunity to firmly settle the long-running “greatest of all time” debate, insisting that there is only one player deserving of that title.
He playfully warned supporters of rival footballers to brace themselves, suggesting that should Messi go on to win another World Cup title, there would be no escaping the bragging rights that would follow.
The post has since stirred reactions online, with football fans weighing in on both sides of the GOAT debate following Messi’s record-tying display.
In his words:
“No words
No words
When he is gone, he will be missed.
Wow!
As fans, we entered the World Cup hopeful he’d score at least three goals and be tied for most world cup goals.
Guess what? He did it in one game! A hat trick at this age!
Stop the nonsense. There is only one GOAT
Only one.
Start praying if you Stan someone else. Pray hard. If Messi wins another World Cup, there’d be nowhere for you to hide in shame.”
See the post below:
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Check out some comments that trailed his post below:
