Argentina captain Lionel Messi made history after inspiring his side to a 2-1 comeback victory over England in the semifinal of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
England took the lead in the 55th minute through Anthony Gordon after an assist from Morgan Rogers. However, Argentina fought back late in the game, with Enzo Fernández equalizing in the 85th minute from a Messi assist before Lautaro Martínez headed home the winner in stoppage time from another Messi delivery.
According to Opta, Messi completed nine successful dribbles and provided two assists during the match, becoming the first player since records began in 1966 to achieve both feats in a single FIFA World Cup knockout game.
The 39 year old also extended his record for the most World Cup assists, taking his tally to 12, with 10 of those coming in knockout matches. No other player since 1966 has recorded more than eight assists across all World Cup tournaments.
