Lionel Messi Sets New Records at 2026 FIFA World Cup Final

Messi's Historic Appearance in World Cup Final

On July 19, Lionel Messi made headlines by being included in Argentina's starting lineup for the FIFA World Cup 2026 final against Spain, held at Metlife Stadium in New Jersey. At 39 years old, Messi is on a mission to secure a second consecutive World Cup title for Argentina, following their victory in 2022. He has been a pivotal figure in Argentina's journey throughout the tournament and is a strong contender for the Golden Ball award for the third time. Currently, Messi ranks as the second-highest scorer in the tournament with eight goals and has provided four assists.

Messi's Unprecedented Milestone

By starting in this final, Messi has made history as the first player to participate in three World Cup finals, having previously played in the 2014 and 2022 finals. He captained the team in both instances, experiencing a loss to Germany and a win against France. Messi joins Brazil's Cafu as the only other player to have played in three finals, although Cafu was a substitute in the 1994 final. Messi has won the tournament twice (1994 against Italy and 2022 against Germany) and faced defeat against France in 1998. Notably, legends like Pele, Ronaldo, Lothar Matthäus, and Pierre Littbarski were part of squads that reached three finals but only played in two.

Breaking Long-Standing Records

Messi has also set a new record by becoming the oldest outfield player to start a World Cup final, breaking a 66-year-old record. He is now the second oldest player to appear in the final match of this prestigious tournament, following West Germany's goalkeeper Dino Zoff.

Oldest Outfield Players in World Cup Finals

Additionally, Messi has made history as the first captain to lead his team in three World Cup finals, a feat previously achieved by only four players who captained in two finals: Diego Maradona, Dunga, Hugo Lloris, and Karl-Heinz Rummenigge.