Lionel Messi solidifying GOAT status with World Cup record run
· Yahoo Sports
While some have tried for years, it’s become almost impossible to argue that Lionel Messi is the greatest of all time (GOAT) in the game of soccer.
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Collecting countless trophies and checking off every major championship there is to win in soccer, Messi has now solidified his status by also etching his name at the top of every major record in FIFA World Cup history.
Surpassing true legends like Brazil’s Pelé, France’s Zinedine Zidane, and Argentina’s Maradona, Lionel Messi has put himself at the top of the mountain in not just championship history, but in the record books as well.
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Let’s take a look at the records Messi has broken in the World Cup, and exactly how it happened.
Most Goals in FIFA World Cup
Current: Messi, 21
Previous Record: Miroslav Klose, 16
June 22, 2026; Arlington, Texas, U.S.; Argentina’s Lionel Messi celebrates scoring their second goal. Mandatory Credit: Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images
Scoring his 17th goal in a group stage match against Austria, Messi passed Germany’s Miroslav Klose to sit atop the FIFA World Cup’s all-time goal scorer list with 21 goals and counting.
Most Assists in FIFA World Cup
Current: Messi, 12
Previous Record: Maradona, 8
Passing his former coach and legendary countryman, Diego Maradona, Messi became the all-time leading assister after Cristian Romero scored a crucial goal in Argentina’s comeback against Egypt during this year’s knockout rounds.
Most Dribbles in FIFA World Cup
Current: Messi, 107
Previous Record: Maradona, 105
Through longevity and the willingness to put his country on his shoulders, Messi has led the way for the Argentina national team for well over two decades, so it’s no surprise to see him become the all-time leading dribbler.
Most G/A in FIFA World Cup
Current: Messi, 33
Previous Record: Pelé, 21
Tailing off the longevity, dating back to 2006, Messi has been involved in a multitude of goals and assists, putting him well above the legendary Pelé in goal contributions.
Most Golden Balls in FIFA World Cup
Dec 18, 2022; Lusail, Qatar; Argentina forward Lionel Messi (10) holds the golden ball trophy after winning the 2022 World Cup final against France at Lusail Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Yukihito Taguchi-Imagn Images
Lionel Messi is the only player to win two Golden Balls in FIFA World Cup history. With a strong opportunity to win a third at the end of this tournament.