India, July 6 -- Pedri hailed Lionel Messi's impact at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, claiming that he hoped for a final showdown between Spain and Argentina. The defending champions beat Cape Verde in their Round of 32 clash and will face Egypt in the Round of 16. Meanwhile, the reigning European champions defeated Austria and are set to face Portugal in the Round of 16.

For Argentina, Messi has defied logic. He is 39 years old, and it would have been fine if he had not performed as he has been playing in this tournament. He is on top of the Golden Boot race with Erling Haaland and Kylian Mbappe. They have scored seven goals each.

Speaking to AS, Pedri said, "I am enjoying him. I already enjoyed him when I trained with him every day....