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Lionel Messi is undoubtedly one of the greatest footballers in history. His performances in FIFA World Cups have been nothing short of legendary. From his debut in 2006 to his triumphant 2022 campaign in Qatar, Messi has delivered unforgettable moments, scoring crucial goals and providing breathtaking assists. This article, brought to you by Bizliweb, takes you through every goal and assist Messi has recorded in FIFA World Cup history.
Messi’s FIFA World Cup Journey: A Timeline
Lionel Messi has played in five FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022). Over these tournaments, he has evolved from a young prodigy to a seasoned leader, ultimately lifting the World Cup trophy in 2022.
Let’s break down every goal and assist he contributed in each edition of the tournament.
FIFA World Cup 2006 – Germany
Messi’s World Cup Debut
Messi made his FIFA World Cup debut as an 18-year-old for Argentina in 2006. While he wasn’t the team’s main star at the time, he still made an impact.
Goals in 2006:
- Argentina vs. Serbia & Montenegro (6-0) – Group Stage
- Goal: Messi scored his first-ever FIFA World Cup goal in this match, netting the final goal in Argentina’s 6-0 thrashing of Serbia & Montenegro.
Assists in 2006:
- Argentina vs. Serbia & Montenegro (6-0) – Group Stage
- Assist: Messi assisted Hernán Crespo for Argentina’s fourth goal.
Though Argentina was eliminated in the quarter-finals by Germany, Messi showed glimpses of his future greatness.
FIFA World Cup 2010 – South Africa
By 2010, Messi had already won the Ballon d’Or and was the key player for Argentina. However, despite high expectations, he did not score in the tournament.
Assists in 2010:
- Argentina vs. South Korea (4-1) – Group Stage
- Assist: played a key role in setting up Gonzalo Higuaín’s goal.
- Argentina vs. Mexico (3-1) – Round of 16
- Assist: Assisted Carlos Tevez for a stunning goal.
Despite strong performances, Argentina was eliminated by Germany in the quarter-finals again.
FIFA World Cup 2014 – Brazil
This was one of Messi’s most memorable tournaments as he led Argentina to the final, winning the Golden Ball for the best player of the tournament.
Goals in 2014:
- Argentina vs. Bosnia & Herzegovina (2-1) – Group Stage
- Goal: scored a brilliant solo goal.
- Argentina vs. Iran (1-0) – Group Stage
- Goal: scored a stunning last-minute winner.
- Argentina vs. Nigeria (3-2) – Group Stage
- Goal: scored twice in this game.
Assists in 2014:
- Argentina vs. Switzerland (1-0) – Round of 16
- Assist: Provided a key assist for Angel Di María’s winning goal.
Despite losing to Germany in the final, Messi’s performance in Brazil 2014 was remarkable.
FIFA World Cup 2018 – Russia
Argentina struggled in 2018, but Messi still managed to deliver magical moments.
Goals in 2018:
- Argentina vs. Nigeria (2-1) – Group Stage
- Goal:i scored a stunning goal to help Argentina qualify for the knockout stage.
Assists in 2018:
- Argentina vs. France (3-4) – Round of 16
- Assist: Assisted Gabriel Mercado for a goal.
Argentina was eliminated by France in the Round of 16, but Messi’s goal against Nigeria was one of the best of the tournament.
FIFA World Cup 2022 – Qatar
This was ultimate World Cup, as he finally won the trophy that had eluded him for so long. His performances were legendary, winning the Golden Ball for the second time.
Goals in 2022:
- Argentina vs. Saudi Arabia (1-2) – Group Stage
- Goal: scored Argentina’s only goal with a penalty.
- Argentina vs. Mexico (2-0) – Group Stage
- Goal: scored a crucial long-range goal.
- Argentina vs. Australia (2-1) – Round of 16
- Goal: scored his first-ever knockout stage goal.
- Argentina vs. Netherlands (2-2, 4-3 on penalties) – Quarter-finals
- Goal: i scored a penalty.
- Argentina vs. Croatia (3-0) – Semi-finals
- Goal: scored from the penalty spot.
- Argentina vs. France (3-3, 4-2 on penalties) – Final
- Goal: Messi scored twice, including a crucial extra-time goal.
Assists in 2022:
- Argentina vs. Mexico (2-0) – Group Stage
- Assist: Assisted Enzo Fernández’s goal.
- Argentina vs. Netherlands (2-2, 4-3 on penalties) – Quarter-finals
- Assist: Assisted Nahuel Molina’s goal.
- Argentina vs. Croatia (3-0) – Semi-finals
- Assist: Set up Julián Álvarez’s goal after a brilliant solo run.
In the final against France, Messi scored twice and converted his penalty in the shootout, leading Argentina to victory.
Messi’s FIFA World Cup Stats (2006-2022)
- Total World Cup Goals: 13
- Total World Cup Assists: 8
- World Cup Titles: 1 (2022)
- Golden Ball Awards: 2 (2014, 2022)
Messi’s Legacy in FIFA World Cup History
Lionel FIFA World Cup journey is one of perseverance, heartbreak, and ultimate glory. After coming close in 2014, he finally achieved his dream in 2022, cementing his legacy as one of football’s greatest players.
At Bizliweb, we celebrate World Cup achievements, acknowledging his unparalleled skill, vision, and leadership on the world’s biggest stage.
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