Argentina captain Lionel Messi added another milestone to his remarkable international career despite his country’s defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final.
The 39-year-old featured throughout Sunday’s final in New Jersey, where Argentina lost 1-0 after extra time following Ferran Torres’ decisive goal that handed Spain the world title.
Although Argentina fell short of defending the trophy they won in 2022, Messi’s appearance saw him achieve another historic feat on football’s biggest stage.
According to OptaJoe, the Inter Miami forward became only the second player in history to feature in three different FIFA World Cup finals, matching a record previously held by Brazilian legend Cafu.
Messi also became the oldest outfield player ever to appear in a FIFA World Cup final, extending his list of records in international football.
The Argentine captain enjoyed another outstanding tournament, finishing the competition with eight goals and four assists as he inspired his team to a second consecutive World Cup final.
While the defeat denied Messi another world title, his performances throughout the tournament further strengthened his legacy as one of the greatest players in football history.