The Argentina captain has now scored 20 FIFA World Cup goals, extending his record as the competition’s all-time leading scorer after finding the net in Argentina’s 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde in the Round of 32.
The goal also made the 39-year-old the first player in World Cup history to score in eight consecutive matches, a remarkable run that began during Argentina’s triumphant campaign at the 2022 tournament.
Messi has already scored seven goals in just four matches at this year’s competition, placing him firmly in contention for the Golden Boot as the tournament’s leading scorer.
A tournament full of records
Messi’s latest achievements have further strengthened a World Cup legacy that few players have come close to matching.
He is now the first footballer to score seven or more goals in two different FIFA World Cups, having reached the milestone in both Qatar 2022 and the ongoing 2026 edition.
The Argentine icon has also scored 12 goals across his last eight World Cup appearances, highlighting an extraordinary level of consistency on football’s biggest stage.
Since making his World Cup debut in 2006, Messi has featured in six editions of the tournament, winning the title in 2022 and inspiring Argentina’s latest run as defending champions.
Beyond his goals, he remains the team’s creative heartbeat, combining leadership, vision and composure in crucial moments.
“Lionel Messi is the first player in FIFA World Cup history to score in eight consecutive matches and the first to score seven or more goals in two separate World Cup tournaments.”
Key statistics
At 39, Messi continues to defy expectations and redefine longevity at the highest level of the game.
His World Cup résumé now includes 20 goals, seven goals in four matches at the 2026 tournament, a record eight-match scoring streak, and a World Cup winners’ medal from Qatar 2022.
He also holds records for the most World Cup appearances by a men’s player and the most matches played as Argentina captain at the tournament.
With the knockout stages still to come, Messi has another opportunity to add to a career that already includes multiple Ballon d’Or titles, UEFA Champions League trophies, Copa América success and a FIFA World Cup crown.
Whether or not Argentina retains the trophy, the veteran forward continues to redefine greatness, proving that class, intelligence, and determination can overcome the passing of time.
