Real Madrid and Colombia midfielder James Rodriguez has paid tribute to Barcelona and Argentina rival Lionel Messi ahead of their Copa America meeting.
The countries face-off in the quarter-finals of the South American championship and James was asked about Messi at a Press conference.
“He’s from another world. He’s a unique player,” came the beginning of the reply, Marca reports.
“This can’t be a duel between James and Messi, because that wouldn’t be fair.”
James also touched on his form in the competition so far and acknowledged it could have been better, but said the game against Argentina was a chance to improve due to their approach.
“I never want to play poorly but it happens to everyone. It’s hard for the talented players when there is so much friction and physicality,” he argued.
“Everyone is aware of the good players. There’s no space, nobody wants to give anything away. In the three games I’ve not had a lot of space.
“It’s been very intense. There’s not a lot of space and I can’t play much. [Argentina] will be a nice game to make it right. Argentina play well and they let you play.”
