Miami: FIFA World Cup 2026 witnessed another historic milestone as Argentina captain Lionel Messi surpassed legendary compatriot Diego Maradona for the most assists in World Cup history during a dramatic 3-2 extra-time win over Cape Verde in the Round of 32.
The record came in a pulsating knockout clash at Miami Stadium, where Messi also scored and played a decisive role as defending champions Argentina national football team edged past debutants Cape Verde in one of the most intense matches of the tournament.
Messi sets new World Cup assist record
Messi’s latest assist contribution took his tournament tally to nine, moving him ahead of Maradona’s previous record of eight assists at World Cup finals. The milestone further strengthens his legacy as one of the most influential players in the competition’s history.
The Argentina skipper also continued his extraordinary scoring run, finding the net in the 29th minute to open the scoring. The goal extended his streak of scoring in eight consecutive World Cup matches, another unprecedented achievement in the tournament’s modern era.
With the strike, Messi also took his overall World Cup goal tally to 20, placing him among the highest scorers in the competition’s history.
Golden Boot race heats up
Before the match, Messi was level with France captain Kylian Mbappe in the Golden Boot race. His opening goal against Cape Verde pushed him ahead in the standings, further underlining his dominant form at the tournament.
The 39-year-old had already scored seven goals in the previous World Cup edition and has now matched that tally again in the 2026 campaign, making him the first player to achieve seven goals in two separate World Cups.
Cape Verde push Argentina to the limit
Cape Verde produced one of the most spirited performances of the tournament despite being debutants at this stage of the competition. They matched Argentina for large spells and forced extra time after a determined display.
Deroy Duarte equalised after Messi’s opener, before Sidny Lopes Cabral produced a stunning strike in extra time to briefly bring Cape Verde level at 2-2. Goalkeeper Vozinha also delivered several key saves to frustrate Argentina’s attack.
However, Argentina eventually sealed victory when Cristian Romero scored from a set-piece, with a deflection proving decisive in the 111th minute.
Late drama seals Argentina progression
Cape Verde nearly forced penalties late on, but Emiliano Martínez produced a crucial save to deny another equaliser. The final whistle confirmed Argentina’s place in the Round of 16, where they will face Egypt.
Despite the defeat, Cape Verde exited the tournament with widespread admiration after pushing the reigning champions to their limits.
Conclusion
Messi’s record-breaking night at the FIFA World Cup 2026 added yet another chapter to his extraordinary career. While Argentina move forward in pursuit of another title, Cape Verde leave the tournament having earned global respect and created one of its most memorable matches.