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Lionel Messi has once again made football history. Adding another feather to the cap, the Argentine legend surpassed Diego Maradona’s all-time FIFA World Cup assist record against Cabo Verde in one of the most thrilling matches at FIFA World Cup 2026.
This historic moment in football only enhances Messi’s legacy as one of the greatest players to have ever played the game. With Diego Maradona, there are simply no words to be said other than just watching him play football at the age of 39 on the big stage and performing as an immortal.
Messi Surpasses Maradona’s World Cup Assist Record
Messi became the all-time Argentina World Cup assists leader with his ninth in the tournament, passing Diego Maradona.
It was during Argentina’s ecstatic 3-2 extra-time win against Cabo Verde in the Round of 32 that the milestone was achieved. Messi produced the corner that eventually resulted in the winner, taking Argentina through and securing his place in history.
Maradona’s accomplishments were the definition of Argentine football greatness for decades. But Messi’s sustained excellence and magnificence across four World Cups has brought him past one of the national team’s most storied hauls in history.
An emotional moment not only for the Argentine centre half and his family but for football fans far and wide with two generations of Argentine legends drawing together yet another milestone in the history books.
Another Historic Night for Lionel Messi
Messi’s amazing night was newly defined by smashing the FA Cup assist tally set by Diego Maradona.
The Argentine superstar also became the first player in FIFA World Cup history to score in eight consecutive matches at a single tournament. His phenomenal level of performance on the game’s biggest stage just continues to raise standards for future generations.
Messi scored the first goal in the opening half with a classic strike that showcased his trademark composure and technical ability. The goal took his World Cup total to 20, increasing his place among the top scorers in tournament history.
And every World Cup gives Messi an act to follow, and the 2026 one is not any different.
Seven Goals in Two Different World Cups
Another one of Messi’s insane records in this tournament is being the first player ever to score seven goals on two different FIFA World Cup editions.
Messi finished as Argentina’s top scorer with seven goals during their 2022 title-winning run and has done it again in 2026. That sort of consistency at the international football top table is unheard-of.
Messi, nearing the end of his storied career, tends to excel in yet another World Cup. He still possesses world-class leadership, vision and finishing ability.
The Argentine captain is also now firmly in contention for the Golden Boot — further evidence that Messi remains one of the game’s individual stars.
Argentina Survive a Massive Cabo Verde Scare
Argentina had to dig deep against a willing Cabo Verde side before emerging winners, with Messi’s records making the headlines.
One of the most memorable performances from the group stage came from an African nation, which took last year’s champions to the wire. The intention was quirky, and football supporters on the globe adored them.
Cabo Verde was excellent in the second half after trailing through a Messi goal. The liberalization put an end to a special chapter in the history of the country. Suggested 2nd Paragraph Sentence: It was a historic moment for the nation and it brought new energy into the contest.
The underdogs continued to push Argentina all the way, refusing to give in against one of football’s heavyweights until the last minute
Extra-Time Drama Produces Historic Moments
The knockout clash had everything a fan could ask for: goals, atmosphere, drama and history.
In extra time, Argentina had the lead again until Cabo Verde contested back with another equalizer. How a penalty shootout was appearing almost inevitable as the two sides clashed.
But Lionel Messi delivered again for his country, as he often does when it matters most.
After that was it his impeccably placed set piece which created the match winning opportunity for Argentinian. The assist put him clear of Maradona at the World Cup and into an even more iconic place in his international career.
In the end Argentina did win an epic battle but Cabo Verde earned huge respect for their gutsy showing.
Messi’s Legacy Continues to Grow
Lionel Messi is achieving very high in checking the basket of international football.
His impact has grown from winning the FIFA World Cup in 2022 to setting multiple records in 2016. When World Cup history is written, each new chapter appears to unearth a remarkable diamond that cements his place among the immortals of football.
So a matter of 10 days after breaking Diego Maradona’s World Cup assist record carries much more weight than simply one less name to beat out. Beating such a record demonstrates just how far Messi has come with his national team.
More than numbers and trophies, Messi has captured the hearts of millions upon millions of young footballers around the globe — who refuse to stop until they can do what he does best. He raised modern-excellence standards in professional top-flight football as we knew it forever.
Argentina Eye Another World Cup Triumph
This win took Argentina to the next step in their quest for a World Cup title defense.
With seasoned leaders and exciting young talent the team brought to bear an balanced roster that could compete with anyone. Even with a new generation fast emerging, Messi is still the soul of it all.
This season we are witnessing a sporting career for the ages unfold before an audience of millions, with football fans around the globe tuning into events taking place live.
If this current form is anything to go by Lionel Messi will not be finishing breaking records any time soon.
Also Read: Ronaldo vs Messi: Who Is the Greatest Football Player of All Time?
FAQs
How many World Cup assists does Lionel Messi have?
Lionel Messi now has nine assists in FIFA World Cup history, making him Argentina’s all-time leader in World Cup assists.
Which record did Messi break in the FIFA World Cup 2026?
Messi broke Diego Maradona’s World Cup assist record and became the first player to score in eight consecutive World Cup matches.
How many World Cup goals has Lionel Messi scored?
Messi’s latest goal increased his FIFA World Cup tally to 20 goals, placing him among the tournament’s greatest scorers.
Is Lionel Messi still competing for the Golden Boot?
Yes, Messi remains one of the leading contenders for the Golden Boot after another impressive performance in FIFA World Cup 2026.
