Lionel Messi has made history once again by reaching an impressive 20 goals in World Cup knockout stages and becoming the first player to score in eight consecutive matches in the world's premier national team competition. At 39 years old, the Argentine genius continues to collect records and defy the laws of age, this time against Cape Verde, in Argentina's hard-fought 3-2 victory after extra time in Miami Gardens during the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup.
The captain of Argentina opened the scoring in the 29th minute with a powerful left-footed shot from a long pass by Lisandro Martínez, leaving goalkeeper Vozinha with no chance. Messi was also decisive in assisting the other two goals for his team, expertly taking the corners that resulted in the other strikes from the South American side. This goal allowed him to strengthen his solo lead in the list of top scorers in World Cup history, pulling away from Frenchman Kylian Mbappé, his main rival in this edition. Mbappé had scored twice against Sweden, but Messi once again put two goals between them, with seven goals in this 2026 edition, matching the record he had already achieved in Qatar in 2022.
THE 2026 WORLD CUP IS EXPERIENCED WITH LEGO
O MUNDIAL 2026 VIVE-SE COM A LEGO
This achievement gains even more significance when it is realized that Messi has scored in every match of this year's edition and was already on a streak of four consecutive games in 2022, totaling now eight consecutive matches with goals – an unprecedented record in the competition's history. No other player has even reached seven consecutive games scoring in knockout stages, which reinforces the legendary status of the Argentine '10'. In addition to his scoring prowess, Messi also strengthened his records for matches played in World Cups (30), minutes on the pitch (2,635), and victories achieved (20).
The importance of this achievement is not limited to the individual level. In an experienced but renewing Argentine squad, Messi continues to be the beacon and reference for younger players. The impact is even more noticeable considering the added pressure of defending the world title, won in 2022, and the enormous expectations of Argentine fans and football supporters worldwide. In the race for the Golden Boot of this World Cup, Messi leads with seven goals, followed by Mbappé (six), Haaland (five), and Harry Kane (five). The Argentine shows that, despite his advanced age, he remains decisive on the biggest stages.
At the end of the match, Messi did not hide his satisfaction: “It’s incredible to continue scoring and helping the team. These records are special, but the most important thing is that we move forward. I want to enjoy this moment with my teammates and all Argentinians,” said the forward, after securing progression to the next stage. The Argentine coach also highlighted the captain's fundamental role: “Leo is being decisive both on and off the field. His experience and quality are unique. It is a privilege to have the best of all time on this journey,” he stated at a press conference.
The immediate horizon places Argentina in the round of 16, where the opponent will be known in the coming days. With Messi experiencing one of the best moments of his career in World Cups and leading all the statistical rankings of the competition, the Albiceleste team is favored to continue making history. Expectations are rising: will Messi be able to further increase this record and lead Argentina to another title? The football world is watching, and each new game is an opportunity for the Argentine star to redefine the impossible.
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