Lionel Messi's Potential Record-Breaking Moments in FIFA World Cup Final

As Lionel Messi gears up for what could be his final World Cup match against Spain, he stands on the brink of breaking multiple records. With a remarkable performance in the FIFA World Cup 2026, Messi has already scored eight goals and provided four assists. This article delves into the records he could achieve, including becoming the oldest outfield player in a World Cup final and the first captain to win two World Cups. Discover the historic milestones that await Messi in this pivotal match.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 18, 2026, 14:03 IST

Messi's Last Dance at the World Cup?

As Argentina prepares to defend its title against Spain at New Jersey Stadium, Lionel Messi may be playing his last World Cup match. At 39 years old, the prospect of returning for another World Cup at 43 seems unlikely. Messi has had an impressive run in the FIFA World Cup 2026, netting eight goals and assisting four times. The final could be a chance for him to further enhance his already illustrious World Cup legacy by breaking several records.

Records Lionel Messi Could Achieve in the Final

Oldest Outfield Player in a World Cup Final

On Sunday, Messi is set to become the oldest outfield player to participate in a World Cup final. The record for the oldest player is held by Italy's Dino Zoff, who was a goalkeeper at 40 years and 133 days during the 1982 final. If Messi finds the net, he will surpass Sweden’s Nils Liedholm, who scored at 35 years and 264 days in the 1958 final.

Most World Cup Finals Played

This final will mark Messi's third appearance in a FIFA World Cup final. He previously led Argentina to victory in 2022 and was part of the squad that lost to Germany in 2014. If he plays, he will join Brazil's Cafu as only the second player to appear in three World Cup finals.

Most World Cups Captained

Should Messi guide Argentina to victory in the FIFA World Cup 2026, he will make history as no captain has ever won two World Cups.

Most Goals and Assists in a Single Tournament

With eight goals and four assists in the current tournament, Messi is just two contributions away from breaking the record for the most attacking contributions in a single World Cup, currently held by Gerd Müller with 13 in 1970. Scoring against Spain would also make him the sixth player to score in two different World Cup finals, joining legends like Pele and Zidane.

Most Goals in World Cup Finals

After scoring twice in the 2022 final, Messi could match Kylian Mbappe's record for the most goals in World Cup finals if he scores again. Additionally, a free-kick goal would elevate him to the top for the most free-kick goals in World Cup history, as he currently has two.