Thierry Henry joins Zlatan Ibrahimović in saluting Lionel Messi after World Cup loss

Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimović pay tribute to Lionel Messi after World Cup loss

On 18 December 2022, France’s World Cup campaign ended in a dramatic shootout loss to Argentina in the final. The defeat capped a thrilling tournament, but it also drew praise from two legends-Thierry Henry and Zlatan Ibrahimović-who saluted Lionel Messi’s performance.

What happened in Qatar?

France pushed through extra time and nearly forced a winner in the 120th minute. Kylian Mbappé’s hat-trick kept Les Bleus alive, but Argentina’s resilience prevailed. The final finished 3-3 after extra time before Argentina won 4-2 on penalties. Messi, who lifted the trophy in 2022, was the focal point of the celebrations-and the tributes.

Why it matters for Thierry Henry

Henry, a World Cup winner himself in 1998, has long respected Messi’s class. His public nod to the Argentine icon underscores the mutual admiration between two of the game’s greatest. The tribute also spotlights Messi’s longevity at the highest level, now 35 when he claimed his fifth World Cup medal.

What comes next for France?

France’s golden generation faces a reset. Mbappé, 24, is the heir apparent, but the loss leaves questions over the next cycle. Didier Deschamps, the manager, now turns his focus to Euro 2024 qualifying. The defeat stings, but the core remains intact.

And Henry’s gesture-paired with Ibrahimović’s-sends a message: even rivals recognize greatness when they see it.