Former World Footballer of the Year Kaka acknowledges Lionel Messi deserves that title for now.

"He is a player who makes a difference," Kaka said on Thursday, just two days before meeting Messi in a World Cup qualifier between South American rivals Brazil and Argentina. "I would vote for him for all he has done, leading Barcelona to all these titles."

Messi has never won FIFA's Player of the Year Award but he is considered a front-runner for this year's title. Kaka won it in 2007 and has constantly said his goal was to earn the prize again.

"It remains my objective to get back there and win it," said Kaka.

Kaka played down a duel with Messi when they meet in the qualifier at Rosario on Saturday.

"The media always talks about a duel, that was the case with meand Cristiano Ronaldo, too," Kaka said. "But on the field it's not like that. It will be Brazil vs. Argentina and both teams have several talented players on both sides."

Kaka, who will be making his 70th appearance for Brazil, said he sees himself with a little of the "art" of Argentina coach Diego Maradona and some of the "efficiency" of Brazil coach Dunga.

"I opted for a mix so I can be a complete player," Kaka said. "I'm not a great artist like Maradona was, I know my limitations and that talent alone is not enough. The ideal is to mix art and efficiency."

Kaka is one goal shy of tying Romario and Zico as Brazil's leading scorers in World Cup qualifiers with 11 goals.

"It would be special to do it against Argentina," he said. "Butthere still are four matches left and hopefully I'll be able to reach that mark, which would be nice because I'm not really a true striker."

(Xinhua News Agency September 4, 2009)