Lionel Messi continues to create history in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Inter Miami striker has etched his name further into World Cup folklore by becoming the player with the most assists in the tournament's history.
The 39-year-old Argentina captain now sits atop the all-time list with nine assists, one more than the legendary Diego Armando Maradona. The record-breaking moment came during Argentina's encounter with Cape Verde, where Messi's precise pass led to an own goal that was officially credited as his assist.
Messi surpasses Maradona to become World Cup's all-time assists leader during Argentina vs Cape Verde clash
Messi, who already holds the record for the most World Cup goals, continues to defy age expectations at the 2026 edition. The achievement adds another chapter to Messi's remarkable international career, which includes leading Argentina to glory in 2022.
Meanwhile, Argentina have qualified for the Round of 16 of the ongoing edition in a hard-fought victory against Cape Verde. The underdogs pushed the defending champions beyond their limit, but Messi's side found their way to advance to the next round.
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