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Earlier in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Lionel Messi became the FIFA World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer. Now, after Argentina’s remarkable comeback win against Egypt in the round of 16 on Tuesday, he is also the tournament’s all-time assists leader.
Messi, whose 21 goals are the most by a single player in FIFA World Cup history, collected 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 come-by-behind win against Egypt in the round of 16 on Tuesday at the Atlanta Stadium. Messi found Cristian Romero in the box and the centre-back headed it in to pull one back for Argentina at 2-0.
Messi added to the cause in the 83rd minute with a goal on a stunning 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 Golden Boot race. Messi was previously linked with Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland.
Argentina completed the comeback in the second minute of stoppage time when Enzo Fernández headed into the right side of the net after an assist from Lisandro Martínez. Argentina scored three goals in 14 minutes to hand Egypt a shock defeat.
Argentina will now play the winner of Colombia vs. Switzerland in the quarter-finals.
