Iker Casillas Names Lionel Messi His Toughest Opponent
Real Madrid great Iker Casillas has revealed that Lionel Messi was the hardest striker he ever faced. In 26 encounters, Messi scored 17 goals against him—more than any other player in his 16-year career at the Bernabeu. The Argentine also netted both of the only two hat-tricks Casillas conceded across more than 1,000 senior matches. When asked to choose between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Casillas said he never faced Ronaldo at club level but found Messi to be the more challenging opponent. His view echoes many top keepers, from Gianluigi Buffon to Alisson Becker, who have also struggled to contain Messi. As the Argentine prepares for what is likely his final World Cup, Argentina will aim to defend their title and become back-to-back champions for the first time since Brazil in 1962.
Use The App To Win ₦1m
Stories are shared by community members. This article does not represent the official view of NaijaWorld — the author is solely responsible for its content.