Lionel Messi has added another remarkable chapter to his legendary career, rewriting the FIFA World Cup record books as Argentina faced Spain in the tournament’s final.
At 39 years and 25 days old, the Argentina captain became the oldest outfield player ever to feature in a FIFA World Cup final, surpassing a record that had stood for 68 years.
Messi Breaks Historic Milestone
Messi eclipsed the previous mark set by Sweden’s Gunnar Gren, who played in the 1958 World Cup final at the age of 37.
Across the tournament’s history, only Italy’s legendary goalkeeper Dino Zoff has appeared in a World Cup final at an older age, having played in the 1982 showpiece at 40 years old.
The latest achievement further cements Messi’s place among football’s all-time greats, with yet another record added to an already unparalleled international career.
Joins Cafu in Exclusive World Cup Club
By taking the field at MetLife Stadium, Messi also matched Brazilian legend Cafu as only the second player to appear in three different FIFA World Cup finals.
His previous final appearances came in 2014, when Argentina lost to Germany after extra time, and 2022, when he inspired his country to a dramatic penalty shootout victory over France to claim his first World Cup title.
Argentina’s Driving Force
Messi entered the final in exceptional form, leading Argentina’s charge with eight goals and four assists in seven matches.
His performances have once again been central to the Albiceleste’s success throughout the tournament, underlining his enduring influence despite approaching his 40th birthday.
Road to the Final
Argentina booked their place in the final after staging a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over England in the semifinals.
Spain, meanwhile, secured their spot with an impressive 2-0 win over France, setting up a blockbuster showdown between two of international football’s biggest powers.
Messi’s latest record reinforces the extraordinary longevity of his career. More than two decades after making his professional debut, the Argentine captain continues to perform at the highest level, breaking records while leading his country on football’s biggest stage.
Having lifted the World Cup for the first time in Qatar in 2022, Messi now has the opportunity to make even more history by winning the sport’s most coveted trophy for a second time….See More
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