Arlington, June 28: Lionel Messi added another remarkable milestone to his glittering career by becoming the first player in men’s FIFA World Cup history to score in seven consecutive matches.
The 39-year-old Argentine captain achieved the feat with his 19th World Cup goal, further extending his record as the tournament’s all-time leading men’s goalscorer.
Messi had previously shared the record of scoring in six successive World Cup matches with Just Fontaine and Brazilian legend Jairzinho. His latest strike saw him move clear of both to set a new benchmark.
The goal also marked Messi’s 72nd career free-kick goal and his 12th from a direct free-kick for Argentina. Overall, he has now scored 123 international goals in 202 appearances for his country, placing him second on the all-time international men’s scoring list behind Cristiano Ronaldo, who has 145 goals.
Messi also became only the sixth player since records began in 1966 to score two direct free-kick goals in FIFA World Cup history, joining an elite list comprising Pelé, Rivelino, Teófilo Cubillas, Bernard Genghini and David Beckham.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has also moved to the top of the goalscoring charts at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup with six goals, strengthening his bid to win the tournament’s Golden Boot for the first time in his illustrious career. (AP)
