Lionel Messi matches a World Cup record that was set 64 years ago!
Lionel Messi has been amazing at the 2026 World Cup, leading the race for the golden boot. And before the first 30 minutes were up against Cape Verde, he matched another World Cup record.
At 39 years old, Messi scored his seventh goal in the tournament, helping Argentina take the lead in their round of 32 match.
He’s scored in every game so far, including one goal against Jordan, two against Austria, and a hat trick in their opening win over Algeria.
Even as he gets older, the Inter Miami star shows no signs of slowing down. He’s focused on helping Argentina win their fourth World Cup title and keep their crown.
If they win, Argentina will be only the third team to win back-to-back World Cups, joining Italy in 1938 and Brazil in 1962.
This goal also means Messi has tied a World Cup record set 64 years ago by Brazil’s Vava in 1962.
He’s now scored in each of his last five knockout round games, matching the longest streak ever in the tournament.
Messi is part of a very special group of players to do this, joining Brazil’s Leonidas (1934-38), Hungary’s Gyorgy Sarosi (1934-38), and Brazil’s Vava (1958-62), according to Opta stats.
With this goal, Messi also set a new record as the first player to score seven or more goals in two different World Cups, thanks to his amazing performances in both 2022 and 2026.
If Argentina wins their next game against Cape Verde, Messi will look to score in a sixth straight match, which would make him the record-holder for most consecutive games scored in at the World Cup.
Beyond his goals, Messi’s longevity is incredible — he’s the first player to make 30 or more World Cup appearances. That’s something truly special!