Casemiro Hails Lionel Messi as the 'God of Football' and Praises Erling Haaland After Brazil's World Cup Exit

Brazilian Midfielder Reflects on Sharing the Pitch With Messi and Admits Haaland Was Unstoppable During Norway's Victory             

                                           

Brazil midfielder Casemiro has described Lionel Messi as the "God of football," saying fulfilling his dream of playing alongside the Argentine legend remains one of the greatest moments of his career. The veteran also reserved special praise for Erling Haaland, whose outstanding display helped Norway eliminate Brazil from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking after the tournament, Casemiro reflected on two players he believes define different eras of football—Messi for his unparalleled genius and Haaland for his remarkable goalscoring ability and physical dominance.

"Messi Is the God of Football"

The former Real Madrid and Manchester United midfielder said no player has influenced modern football more than Messi, admitting that playing with the Argentine superstar was an unforgettable experience.

"Playing alongside Messi was something I always dreamed about. He's the God of football. Every day you train with him, you learn something new."

Casemiro added that Messi's consistency, professionalism and ability to decide matches continue to set him apart from every other player.

"You Can Never Stop Him"

Having faced Messi numerous times during his career in Spain and later shared the dressing room with him, Casemiro admitted the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner remains virtually impossible to contain.

"I could never stop him. You can prepare, study him and work on tactics, but when he has the ball, he always finds something special."

The Brazilian described Messi's vision, intelligence and creativity as qualities that separate him from every other footballer.

Praise for Haaland

Casemiro also acknowledged the impact of Norway striker Erling Haaland, whose clinical performance helped eliminate Brazil during the World Cup.

The midfielder praised Haaland's movement, finishing ability and physical strength, saying the Manchester City forward proved why he is regarded as one of the world's most dangerous strikers.

"Haaland is incredible. He's powerful, intelligent and always in the right position. He punished every mistake we made."

Brazil's Painful Exit

Brazil's elimination marked one of the biggest disappointments of the tournament, ending their hopes of winning a record-extending sixth FIFA World Cup title.

Casemiro admitted the defeat was difficult to accept but insisted Brazil must learn from the experience and begin preparing for the next cycle.

Looking Ahead

Now one of the senior figures in Brazilian football, Casemiro said the national team possesses enough young talent to compete for major honours again in the future.

He urged supporters to remain patient, expressing confidence that Brazil would return stronger after analysing the lessons from their World Cup campaign.

While reflecting on the tournament, Casemiro made it clear that his admiration for Messi remains undiminished, while also recognising Haaland as one of football's brightest stars and one of the toughest opponents he has faced in recent years.