Lionel Messi Becomes First to Score in Eight Consecutive WC Matches, Achieves Feat During Argentina vs Cabo Verde FIFA World Cup 2026
Lionel Messi has etched his name in FIFA World Cup history, becoming the first player to score in eight consecutive matches and the all-time leading scorer with 20 goals. Discover how the 39-year-old maestro propelled Argentina into the Round of 16 with a dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde at Miami Stadium on July 3, 2026.
Lionel Messi, the evergreen magician of Argentine football, etched his name deeper into the annals of FIFA World Cup history on Friday, July 3, 2026, achieving an unprecedented double record. The 39-year-old captain became the first player ever to score in eight consecutive World Cup matches, while also surpassing all rivals to become the tournament’s all-time leading goal scorer with an astonishing 20 career goals. FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 Schedule in IST: Check Football WC Knockouts Time Table.
Lionel Messi Creates History
Breaking records isn't just a habit for Lionel Messi, it's just another day at the office! 👑🇦🇷
With his goal against Cape Verde, Messi reached his 20th career World Cup goal, becoming the first player in history to score in 8 consecutive World Cup matches. Furthermore, he has… pic.twitter.com/3Q42g7Dens
— Scout Europe (@scouteuropee) July 4, 2026
His record-breaking 20th World Cup goal, a testament to his enduring brilliance, came in Argentina's high-stakes Round of 32 encounter against a resilient Cape Verde side at Miami Stadium. The dramatic fixture saw the reigning champions emerge victorious with a hard-fought 3-2 win after extra time, propelling Argentina into the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
A Record-Breaking Campaign
Messi, who turned 39 on June 24, 2026, has continued to defy age and expectations throughout the ongoing tournament. His latest achievement extends an already illustrious career, adding to his remarkable seven goals scored during Argentina’s triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign. With thirteen goals already in the 2026 edition, he continues to lead the Golden Boot race.
The goal against Cape Verde marked his eighth consecutive World Cup match finding the back of the net, a streak unmatched in the tournament’s long history. This consistency underscores his unparalleled impact on the biggest stage in international football, further solidifying his claim as one of the greatest players of all time. Lionel Messi Reacts After Argentina’s Thrilling FIFA World Cup 2026 Win Over Cabo Verde, Says 'Knew How To Suffer'.
Prior to this tournament, Miroslav Klose held the record for most World Cup goals with 16, a benchmark Messi has now comprehensively surpassed with his 20 strikes.
Lionel Messi's historic achievements have once again underscored his monumental influence on the beautiful game, proving that even at 39, his hunger for records and glory remains insatiable. As Argentina advances, the world watches to see what further magic the captain will conjure in what many anticipate could be his final World Cup appearance.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 04, 2026 02:43 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
