Lionel Messi continued to write his name into World Cup history after leading Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final at England's expense, adding five new records to his career tally.
The Argentine national team overturned a deficit against England to win 2-1 in the semi-final, with Messi providing the assists for both the equaliser and the winning goal — scored by Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez respectively — guiding the reigning champions to a second consecutive final, where they will face Spain next Sunday.
Messi extended his all-time record as the greatest assist-maker in World Cup history, raising his tally to 12 assists.
The Argentina captain also claimed the record for the most goal contributions in World Cup knockout rounds over the past 60 years, reaching 10 contributions and surpassing all predecessors.
Messi reached the World Cup final for the third time in his career — following the 2014, 2022, and 2026 editions — equalling the achievement of Brazilian legend Cafu.
The Argentina captain further extended his own record as the player with the most World Cup appearances, having played his 33rd match in the tournament.
Messi also recorded another milestone by claiming his first victory over England in his World Cup career, leading Argentina to their first win over the Three Lions in regular time at the World Cup since their quarter-final encounter at the 1986 edition, famously known as the "Maradona match."