President Barack Obama has compared himself to Barcelona striker Lionel Messi at a White House awards ceremony.

   The Colorado Rapids, champions of US Major League Soccer, presented Obama on Tuesday with a No. 10 jersey.

   “That is me and Messi. We’re right up there. Absolutely,” Obama said to laughter.

   Obama described himself to the Colorado players and officials as  “a soccer dad, myself. I have watched my share of games over the years.”  His daughters, Malia and Sasha, play football.

   Messi led Barcelona to a 3-1 victory over Manchester United in the Champions League final last month, and he’s in Argentina preparing for the Copa America.

   Barcelona will play United in a friendly in Washington on July 30.