Lionel Messi eyes historic record in 2026 World Cup final

Argentina, led by 39‑year‑old captain Lionel Messi, will meet Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final in New Jersey. The match gives Messi the chance to become the first player to start in three World Cup finals and the first to captain his side in three finals. He also aims to add a third Golden Ball award to his résumé, having already won the trophy twice.

Messi has already scored eight goals and provided several assists in the tournament, and his leadership has been credited with guiding Argentina through dramatic knockout victories. If Argentina win, Messi will join a tiny elite that includes Brazil’s Cafú in the record books for three final appearances as a starter.