Lionel Messi Wins Silver Ball and Silver Boot at FIFA World Cup 2026 Awards
Lionel Messi, at 39, earned the Silver Ball and Silver Boot at the FIFA World Cup 2026 Awards for his exceptional performance, scoring 8 goals and providing 4 assists for Argentina. This was despite their narrow 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the final at MetLife Stadium on July 19, 2026. These awards highlight Messi's enduring brilliance on the global.
Lionel Messi, at 39 years old, once again defied expectations, claiming the FIFA World Cup 2026 Silver Ball and Silver Boot awards following Argentina's valiant but ultimately unsuccessful campaign against Spain in the final. The Albiceleste captain's remarkable individual contributions, including eight goals and four assists, illuminated the tournament, even as Spain lifted the coveted trophy after a dramatic 1-0 extra-time victory. FIFA World Cup 2026 Award Winners List: Golden Ball, Golden Glove and Other Prize Winners.
The final, played in front of over 80,000 passionate fans at MetLife Stadium, saw Spain's Rodri clinch the Golden Ball as the tournament's best player, while France's Kylian Mbappé secured the Golden Boot with a stunning 10 goals. Messi's twin individual accolades underscore his enduring brilliance on the global stage, marking a poignant moment in what many speculate could be his final World Cup appearance.
The Final Showdown
The intense battle remained goalless through regular time, pushing the contest into extra time. The decisive moment arrived in the 106th minute when Ferran Torres found the back of the net, sealing Spain's second World Cup title. Argentina's challenge was made even harder as Enzo Fernández received a second yellow card, leaving them with ten men for a significant portion of extra time. Despite Messi's efforts throughout the tournament, he notably failed to register a single shot on target in the final, highlighting Spain's defensive mastery. Ferran Torres Goal Video Highlights: Watch Spain's Winner Over Argentina in FIFA World Cup 2026 Final.
Lionel Messi's Unforgettable Campaign
Messi's journey to the Silver Ball and Silver Boot was paved with dazzling performances. The Argentine maestro was directly involved in 12 goals (8 goals, 4 assists), showcasing his playmaking and scoring prowess. His influence was further recognized with a record-extending five Player of the Match awards during the tournament.
At 39 years old, Messi continued to break records, extending his tally to 21 World Cup goals, placing him as the tournament's second-highest goal scorer, just one behind Kylian Mbappé's new record of 22.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Individual Awards
Here's a quick look at the major individual honours from the tournament:
- Golden Ball (Best Player): Rodri (Spain)
- Silver Ball: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
- Bronze Ball: Kylian Mbappé (France)
- Golden Boot (Top Scorer): Kylian Mbappé (France) – 10 goals
- Silver Boot: Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 8 goals
- Bronze Boot: Jude Bellingham (England) – 7 goals
- Golden Glove (Best Goalkeeper): Unai Simón (Spain)
- FIFA Young Player Award: Pau Cubarsí (Spain)
- FIFA Fair Play Trophy: Netherlands
This World Cup marked a significant milestone, being the first to feature 48 teams and co-hosted by three nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Messi's incredible run to the final, securing two prestigious individual awards, cemented his legacy further, even as the ultimate team prize eluded him in a final chapter of his World Cup story.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 20, 2026 11:43 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
