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Earlier in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi became the all-time top scorer in the FIFA World Cup. Now, after Argentina’s remarkable comeback against Egypt in the round of 16 on Tuesday, he is also the all-time leader in assists in the tournament.
Messi, whose 21 goals are the most goals scored by a single player in FIFA World Cup history, picked up his ninth career assist in the tournament, giving him the most assists in World Cup history. Another Argentine legend, Diego Maradona, previously held the record with eight assists.
Messi broke the record with his assist in Argentina’s round of 16 victory over Egypt on Tuesday at Atlanta Stadium. Messi found Cristian Romero in the box and the centre-back headed him to put Argentina 2-0 up.
Messi further contributed to the cause in the 83rd minute with a goal on a superb volley from inside the box. It was Messi’s 21st goal of all time and his eighth of the tournament, making him the sole leader in the race for the Golden Boot. Messi was previously tied with Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland.
Argentina completed their comeback in the second minute of stoppage time, when Enzo Fernández headed a header into the right side of the net thanks to an assist from Lisandro Martínez. Argentina scored three goals in 14 minutes to hand Egypt a shocking defeat.
Argentina will now face the winner of Colombia vs Switzerland in the quarter-finals.
