Brian confesses: Stopping Messi was difficult

Lokomotiv Moscow defender Brian Idowu said it took him extra energy to stop Argentine superstar Lionel Messi
at every encounter at the 2018 World Cup game in Russia, describing him as a robot with human nature.

The 26-year-old full-back was born in St. Petersburg to Nigerian parents and represented the Super
Eagles at the 2018 World Cup, featuring in their group games.

His impressive performance caught the eyes of a number of Russian sides. Dynamo Moscow, CSKA Moscow,
Spartak Moscow, and Lokomotiv Moscow were all interested in signing him, but he opted to join
Lokomotiv.

“He’s a guy with talent; he plays like robot with human nature,” Brian confessed”

“You have to energize yourself more and think very fast when approaching him (Messi) because he knows
what to do with every touch on the ball. And I think that’s why he’s at that level.”

“I must be very honest with you, it was tough stopping him, he has much energy, he stays on the ball as
if he’s the owner of it, and sometimes, his movement and accuracy can annoy you to foul him.”

“What I learnt from his game is that after playing against him, you need to see the video yourself, it
will enable you to prepare for tougher players than Messi not someone below his level, in order words
Messi can improve ability of any learning players.”