Reported by: L.Imafidon
Miami, United States – July 4, 2026 – Lionel Messi has added another historic milestone to his World Cup legacy after scoring in Argentina’s dramatic victory over Cape Verde, a result that secured his place in the record books as the first player to reach seven goals in two separate FIFA World Cup tournaments.
The landmark goal came on Friday, July 3, 2026, during a tightly contested Round of 32 clash at the FIFA World Cup, where Argentina edged past Cape Verde in extra time after a pulsating encounter that saw both sides trade goals throughout the match.
Messi opened the scoring in the first half with a composed finish, setting the tone for another decisive performance as Argentina struggled to contain a spirited Cape Verde side that repeatedly fought back to level the match. His strike also took his tournament tally to seven goals, matching the total he previously achieved in the 2022 World Cup, confirming a rare consistency across editions.
The match itself proved far from straightforward for the defending champions. Cape Verde, competing in their first-ever World Cup knockout stage appearance, responded strongly after going behind, equalising on more than one occasion and forcing Argentina to dig deep in a tense encounter that extended into extra time.
Argentina eventually secured victory through an own goal in the additional period, following sustained pressure and set-piece delivery that once again highlighted Messi’s influence on the game. The result ensured Argentina’s progression to the Round of 16, but also underscored the narrow margins separating the two teams.
Beyond the immediate result, attention quickly shifted to Messi’s latest statistical milestone. His goal against Cape Verde means he has now scored at least seven goals in two separate World Cup tournaments, a feat no other player in the history of the competition has achieved.
The 39-year-old forward, who continues to play a central role for Argentina despite nearing the end of his international career, has been the standout figure of the tournament, consistently delivering in crucial moments and maintaining his reputation as one of football’s most decisive performers on the global stage.
Football analysts have noted that Messi’s latest achievement further strengthens his position in the all-time World Cup scoring charts, where he already holds multiple records, including becoming the highest goal scorer in the competition’s history.
Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni praised his captain’s influence after the match, highlighting not only his goal but also his leadership and creative contribution in set-piece situations that ultimately proved decisive.
Cape Verde, despite defeat, earned widespread praise for their resilience and tactical organisation. Their performance against one of the tournament favourites was seen as a continuation of their surprising run, having already exceeded expectations by reaching the knockout stage.
The Cape Verde coach acknowledged his team’s effort, stating that they had competed with discipline and belief against one of the world’s strongest sides, while also conceding that small defensive lapses proved costly in extra time.
Messi’s latest record adds to a growing list of milestones achieved during the 2026 tournament, where he has consistently been at the centre of Argentina’s attacking play and remains a key figure in their pursuit of another World Cup title.
As Argentina advance, expectations continue to build around their ability to defend their crown, with Messi’s form likely to remain central to their ambitions in the knockout stages of the competition.
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