Argentina captain Lionel Messi has set multiple world records by scoring 12 points in the knockout stages of World Cups. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Kursiv Media.
Messi became the first player in football history to score seven goals at two different World Cups, and also the first to score in all stages of the prestigious tournament: he scored in all three group stage matches and in every knockout round from the round of 32 to the final.
Cape Verde became the 14th national team that the 39-year-old has scored against at World Cups. This happened during their round of 32 match at the 2026 World Cup.
In his career for the national team, Messi has scored 124 goals and provided 64 assists.
Previously, the record was held by Brazilian Pele and Frenchman Kylian Mbappe, who each had 11 points (goals + assists) in knockout stages.
Currently, the round of 32 match of the 2026 World Cup between Argentina and Cape Verde is underway. Regular time ended in a draw. The teams are playing extra time.
Earlier, Kursiv reported that Messi is the main favorite for the Ballon d'Or following the 2026 World Cup. His leadership is due to his phenomenal performance at the current Mundial.
It is worth noting that Lionel Messi has eight Ballon d'Or awards, an absolute record in football history. He won this prestigious award in 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2015, 2019, 2021, and 2023.