Lionel Messi is set to play in his third World Cup final, a feat that places him in elite company and underscores his enduring impact on the sport. The 36-year-old forward, who plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, has scored or assisted in 13 consecutive matches for both club and country.
This streak, if extended to a 14th game in the upcoming final against Spain, would match his personal best set in 2011. Messi's participation in a third World Cup final also makes him only the second player after Cafu to achieve this milestone.
A Career of Resilience
Messi's journey to this point has been marked by significant comebacks and triumphs. He briefly retired from international football in 2016 after losing the 2014 World Cup final and three Copa America finals. However, he reversed that decision and has since won the Copa America twice. The 2022 World Cup victory in Qatar was widely seen as the culmination of his career, completing the set of major honors alongside fellow legends Pelé and Diego Maradona.
"I am very happy for finishing my journey in World Cups in a final, to play the last game in a final. That is really very gratifying," Messi said prior to the 2022 final. "There are a lot of years from this year to the next one. I don't think I will be able to do that. To finish this way is brilliant."
After moving to Inter Miami in 2023, his career was perceived by some as winding down. However, his recent performances demonstrate a continued level of play that defies such assumptions. His game has evolved, with tactical adjustments, including an increased focus on conserving energy on the field. Data from before the England tie in the tournament showed he had walked 47% of the total distance covered, the highest percentage among outfield players.