Lionel Messi's 2026 World Cup has been historic. His eight goals and four assists only scratch the surface of his dominance. The 39-year-old has been a statistical leader in multiple advanced categories.
Messi's eight goals tie him with Kylian Mbappé for the tournament lead. He has the most shots (34) and the second-most shots on target (18). His 5.31 expected goals (xG) rank second overall.
His playmaking is equally elite. Messi leads with 4.12 expected assists (xA), 21 key passes, and 19 completed crosses. He has created 25 chances and 8 big chances, both tournament highs.
As a dribbler, he has completed 25 dribbles, the most of any player. He leads in possessions ending in a shot (76) and has been involved in 13 sequences ending with a goal.
Messi also holds historic World Cup records. He is the all-time leader with 21 goals and 12 assists. He has now scored or assisted in 11 consecutive World Cup matches.
Argentina faces Spain in the World Cup final on July 19.