Argentine football icon Lionel Messi has added another remarkable achievement to his legendary career by becoming the first player in FIFA World Cup history to score seven or more goals in two different World Cup tournaments.
Messi reached the milestone after scoring for Argentina in their 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32. The goal gave him seven goals in the 2026 tournament, matching the seven goals he scored during Argentina’s title-winning campaign at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
The 39-year-old has continued to rewrite football history throughout the 2026 tournament. His latest strike also extended his record of scoring in eight consecutive World Cup matches, another achievement never before reached in the competition. In addition, Messi increased his overall World Cup goal tally to 20, strengthening his position among the tournament’s greatest goalscorers.
Messi’s outstanding performances have played a major role in Argentina’s successful title defense, with the reigning world champions advancing to the knockout stage. Football analysts say his consistency, leadership and ability to deliver in crucial moments continue to set him apart, even at the age of 39.
Fans around the world celebrated the historic feat on social media, praising the Argentine captain for once again breaking records on football’s biggest stage. Many described the achievement as another milestone in one of the greatest careers the sport has ever seen.
With the tournament still underway, Messi has the opportunity to extend his goal tally further and add even more records to his already extraordinary legacy.
