Lionel Messi’s record-breaking 2026 FIFA World Cup run is rewriting the history books.
Messi is the reigning Golden Ball holder from 2022 and is leading the 2026 tournament in the Golden Boot race at 39 years old.
Messi’s run through the World Cup group stage has already shattered some of the most impressive all-time records.
Lionel Messi’s record-breaking World Cup run
Squawka pointed out that Messi has already shattered five all-time World Cup records with just three group stage appearances in 2026.
“It’s been a RECORD-BREAKING group stage for Lionel Messi. The Argentine has set the records for: ◉ Most goals in World Cup history ◉ Most goals from outside the box in World Cup history ◉ Most chances created in World Cup history ◉ First player to score in seven consecutive World Cup games ◉ Oldest player to score a World Cup hat-trick.”
In addition to the five mentioned by Squawka, Messi also became the first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches, and the oldest to score a hat-trick at age 39, with his performance against Algeria in their opener.
A lot more records might be within reach for Messi if Argentina has another deep run in the tournament, with the 39-year-old establishing himself as arguably the greatest player in the tournament’s history.
Job’s not finished for Lionel Messi at the World Cup
Even with all the records he’s accumulated through three games, he and Argentina are hoping to play at least five more games to return to the Final and become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to defend the World Cup.
Executing this feat will further immortalize Messi as an icon of the sport, likely squashing any debate about who the greatest player of all time is.
Argentina will be heavily favored against Cabo Verde in the Round of 32, with a date against either Egypt or Australia in the Round of 16 if they advance.
Any mistake at this point in the tournament will likely kill their dream of repeating as WC Champions, so there’s a lot of pressure on Messi and the squad to stay locked in and finish the job.
Read more:
