Lionel Messi Sets New World Cup Assist Record, Cementing Argentina's Reliance on Him

Lionel Messi has once again broken records at the World Cup, further solidifying his status as the tournament's greatest playmaker and scorer. On July 12, 2026, during Argentina's match against Switzerland, Messi assisted Alexis Mac Allister's goal in the 10th minute, bringing his total World Cup assists to 10. This achievement places him two assists ahead of Diego Maradona, who holds second place. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappé and Michael Olise each have five assists in World Cup history.

The Argentine media celebrated Messi's performance, emphasizing his crucial role in the national team’s success. Headlines proclaimed, "Argentina lives through Messi," and questioned, "Where would we be without him?" They praised his leadership in orchestrating attacks and highlighted his precise assist to Mac Allister as an example of his exceptional skill. Messi continues to raise the bar and solidify his legacy in football history.

Additionally, Messi became the first player in World Cup history to appear in 15 knockout-stage matches, underscoring his longevity and consistent impact on the sport at the highest level. As the 2026 World Cup progresses, Messi’s record-breaking feats remain a focal point for fans and analysts alike.