Lionel Messi Scores in Five World Cups, Joins Elite Players

1 week ago 0

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Lionel Messi made history by scoring in five World Cups, joining Cristiano Ronaldo as the second player to achieve this feat. Messi’s goal gave Argentina a 1-0 lead against Algeria, securing his 14th World Cup goal on Tuesday night.

The talented Argentine forward made his sixth tournament appearance, expertly navigating the Algerian defense and beating goalkeeper Luca Zidane. His performance thrilled the crowd at Arrowhead Stadium.

Messi had a goal disallowed earlier for offsides. He joins Ronaldo, who first hit this milestone in 2022 and is slated to play his sixth World Cup match against Congo. Miroslav Klose of Germany holds the record for the most World Cup goals, with 16, surpassing Brazil’s Ronaldo by one. Messi’s recent goal places him in third place with Kylian Mbappé, who scored twice in France’s victory over Senegal, and Gerd Muller of West Germany.

Tuesday marked the 20th anniversary of Messi’s World Cup debut against Serbia and Montenegro. Despite dealing with a minor hamstring injury at Inter Miami, Messi showed no signs of distress, scoring during a tune-up match against Iceland.

Messi celebrated his 200th international appearance, a career that began in 2005 at age 18. He trails only Ronaldo, who plays his 229th match against Congo, and Bader al-Mutawa, who played 202 matches for Kuwait in 2002.

Fans sporting Messi’s No. 10 jersey packed the stadium and attended a watch party at Kansas City’s Power & Light District. The event featured a real-life goat in an Argentina jersey, symbolizing Messi’s growing reputation as the greatest of all time.

The enthusiasm for Messi continues to grow, with every World Cup goal enhancing his legacy.