Lionel Messi became the first player to start three FIFA World Cup finals after being named in the starting line-up for Argentina’s clash against Spain in New Jersey on Sunday.
La Albiceleste is looking to be just the third side to defend the title after Italy and Brazil. Messi has previously featured in the historic 2022 final win over France and the 2014 loss to Germany.
Only one other player in history has featured in three World Cup finals — Cafu for Brazil in 1994, 1998 and 2002. But, the right back came on as a substitute in the final against Italy in 1994.
Messi is looking to usurp Kylian Mbappe as the highest-scoring player in FIFA World Cup history. Mbappe scored twice in the third-place playoff match against England to take his tally to 21.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has 33 goal contributions in the World Cup and is the only player to receive the prestigious Golden Ball award for best player twice (2014 and 2022).
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Published on Jul 19, 2026