Lionel Messi scored four goals to lift Inter Miami to a 7-1 victory, the most goals Miami has scored in a game, over visiting CF Montréal on Saturday, snapping the team’s winless run in style.

Messi scored on a deflected free kick in the 40th minute before converting again after a stunning solo run in the 52nd. After supplying an assist to Luis Suárez, the Argentina great then completed his hat trick with a delicate chip over the goalkeeper with seven minutes of regulation time remaining.

He wasn’t done.

Deep into stoppage time, Messi lined up a free kick and dispatched it with trademark precision into the side of the net.

“That’s what it means to have Messi on the team,” Miami midfielder Casemiro told Apple TV. “We have to enjoy these moments because he is a person, a player that makes history.

“We saw today that we have to enjoy it, keep supporting and keep competing with him because he continues to be the best. He proved it in the World Cup. We have to enjoy it because, with him, we are so much stronger.”

It’s the eighth time in Messi’s legendary career that he has scored four or more goals in a game and the first time since joining Miami. His last four-goal match came in February 2020 for Barcelona against Eibar in Spain’s LaLiga.

The 39-year-old is also the fastest player in MLS history to reach 20 multigoal games in the regular season, having done so in 72 appearances.

Messi leads the MLS in scoring this season, with 18 goals in just 19 games, to put him two ahead of FC Dallas’ Peter Musa.

“There are no words to describe such footballing beauty,” Miami interim coach Guillermo Hoyos, who was suspended for the game, said. “So much is going on that words simply fall short.

“He is constantly looking for that goal, that play, that pass; I don’t think he’s an ordinary footballer. Analyzing him, both as a player and as a person, goes so deep that you run out of words.”

The victory was Miami’s first in MLS play since July 25 and ended a run of five games without a victory in all competitions, including the Leagues Cup.

It came with Hoyos watching from the stands as punishment for repeated violations of the league’s late kickoff policy. The club named Cristian ‘Kily’ Gonzalez as his permanent successor this week, but Gonzalez is still waiting for his work permits to begin his new job.

“The significance of this victory is huge for everyone,” Hoyos said. “First and foremost for the players, the team itself, who truly deserved it and still do. For the club, which also deserves it given the immense effort involved; and for all of us working together.

“We all deserve this, and what we’re experiencing right now is truly a great blessing. It’s also important for the club’s objectives, coming at what I believe is a crucial moment.”

With assistant coach Rafael Pérez leading the team, Brazil international Casemiro opened the scoring with his first goal for Miami since his summer arrival.

Miami’s other goal came from 18-year-old Alexander Shaw in the 89th minute.

The victory keeps Miami second in the Eastern Conference standings, 10 points behind Nashville SC.

Montréal, which brought on new arrival and Messi’s former Barcelona teammate Alexis Sánchez in the second half, is 14th, second to last in the Eastern Conference.

Messi, 39, slapped Sullivan around the back of the head towards the end of the game as he complained the Union player had elbowed him after he played the ball.

Sullivan reacted angerily to the slap, but the referee quickly intervened.

The MLS confirmed Messi had been fined, but did not reveal the amount.

Messi scored Miami’s second goal at Subaru Park, finding the back of the net for the first time since his father passed away.

The Argentina international was not the only one to clash with Sullivan, as Miami’s Ian Fray was also fined by the MLS.

Fray grabbed the neck of Sullivan after both players got tangled up with one another when Sullivan lost his footing in the box.

A bad-tempered game ended with two red cards as Miami’s Yannick Bright and Sullivan’s brother Cavan were both sent off in stoppage time.

Cavan’s one-game suspension, however, has now been rescinded after review.

Miami are currently second in the Eastern Conference, seven points behind leaders Nashville.

Messi is back in Miami having been in Argentina for the funeral of his father, who was also his agent.

Jorge Messi died aged 68 following a long illness, and in a tribute to his father, Messi suggested he may not continue playing football for much longer.

Messi’s father Jorge was 68 when he died last week following a long illness.

Jorge had been the Argentina forward’s agent since he was 14 and watched him become one of the sport’s greatest ever players.

“I don’t know what I’m going to do without you,” eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi wrote on social media.

“I don’t know how to carry on. I used to just play football, and now I’m really not sure if I’ll carry on doing it for much longer.

“You were by my side from the very beginning. We were so close to the end. Why didn’t you hang in there just a little longer so we could finish this together?”

Messi captained Argentina as they won the World Cup in 2022 and led them to the 2026 World Cup final, which his side lost 1-0 to Spain, before returning to club side Inter Miami.

He returned home with his family after Jorge passed away in a hospital in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina.

A private funeral took place on Sunday at a cemetery in the town of Perez, on the outskirts of Rosario.

“Dad, I still can’t believe you’re gone,” Messi continued. “It hasn’t sunk in, or rather, I don’t want it to.

“It’s so hard for me to imagine that I’ll never see you again, that we’ll never talk again. I know you were suffering and that this is for the best, but you left too soon. We still had so much left to enjoy together.”

During the World Cup, Messi was brought to tears after scoring the opening goal in Argentina’s 3-0 win against Algeria because of a matter he said was “completely unrelated to football”. A statement from his family later said Jorge was dealing with a “health-related situation”.

Messi added: “You kept asking me to play in one last World Cup, and just days before it started, that’s when you took a turn for the worse.

“It was the first time you weren’t going to be at a tournament, but Mom kept telling me you’d get better and that you’d be well enough to travel. I kept telling you that we were going to make it to the final so you could come along.

“Every time a game ended, I’d wait for and miss your message. That’s when I realised how bad the situation was.

“Even so, I couldn’t stop thinking about going as far as possible, to give you time to watch a game. We made it to the final, and you couldn’t be there.

“I wanted to win it so I could bring the trophy to you and show you a new one. I couldn’t, my legs had nothing left. This time I tried to push past my physical limits, but I couldn’t. I never managed to feel right.”

Messi made his sixth appearance at a World Cup as he captained Argentina at the 2026 tournament.

He played eight games during the competition, scoring eight goals and registering four assists.

Ronaldo and Beckham offer condolences

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Jorge Messi’s funeral was held on Sunday in a private ceremony in Perez, Argentina

Messi’s family relocated to Spain in February 2001 after he was signed by Barcelona aged just 13 and, while his mother and three siblings soon moved back to Rosario, his father stayed with him.

The forward went on to score a record 672 goals in 778 games for Barca, helping the club to win the Champions League four times and La Liga title on 10 occasions.

He joined Paris St-Germain in August 2021 before moving to Inter Miami in July 2023, with his contract at the Major League Soccer side running until 2028.

On the international stage, he has scored 125 goals in 207 appearances for Argentina and provided 46 assists.

“Of course, you never missed a single game,” said Messi. “How you suffered watching me play and how much you enjoyed it, even though you never gave me much praise.

“You were my dad, my friend and my mentor. You were always exactly the person you needed to be in every moment, and you were never wrong about anything.

“Despite a few disagreements or arguments, you were always right. In the end, things always turned out just as you said they would.

“I’m going to miss you so much, but you’ll always be with me, especially in raising my children, because I teach and raise them just as you both did with me.

“Rest in peace, and watch over us from above just as you did here. Thank you for everything.

“I love you, Dad.”

Following Messi’s emotional tribute, Portugal international Cristiano Ronaldo posted a message to his fellow forward.

“A huge hug to you and yours in these hard times, Leo. Much strength,” said the 41-year-old.

Inter Miami co-owner and ex-England international Beckham said: “We are with you and your family, Leo, always.”

Jorge, who had also been the Argentina forward’s agent since he was 14, passed away in a hospital in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, in the early hours of Saturday morning.

After speculation about his health during this summer’s World Cup, the Messi family issued a statement saying he was dealing with a “health-related situation” but did not disclose the nature of his condition.

Jorge helped his son become arguably the best player of all time and was in Qatar to see Lionel end his quest to lead Argentina to their third World Cup triumph in 2022.

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Jorge Messi (seated centre) at home with his family in 2003

The Inter Miami forward, 39, also became an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and won the Champions League four times with Barcelona, plus 10 La Liga titles in 17 seasons in their first team.

Jorge supported his local team Newell’s Old Boys and Lionel joined the club when he was seven years old.

The family relocated to Spain in February 2001 after Lionel was signed by Barca aged just 13, and although Messi’s mother and three siblings soon moved back to Rosario, his father stayed with him in Barcelona.

“Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigor and affection the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini,” Newell’s Old Boys posted on X.

“His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel, from his beginnings at Malvinas [youth academy] to the pinnacle of world football glory.

“Thank you for teaching him to love these colours.”

The club added that they “embrace with affection Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias and Maria Sol, and all their loved ones and close ones in this difficult moment”.

Barcelona thanked Jorge “for his commitment to our club, for entrusting us with the beginnings and the most glorious years of his son Leo’s football career”.

The Argentine Football Association said it “deeply mourns with sadness and sorrow the passing of Jorge Messi, father of our captain and emblem, Lionel Messi”.

It added: “From here, we stand in solidarity with the entire family during this difficult time and send the most heartfelt, warm and affectionate embrace.”

The Messi family responded after an Argentine television presenter falsely reported Jorge had died during Argentina’s opening game at this summer’s World Cup.

The presenter later resigned, while the family expressed their “deep discomfort with the lack of sensitivity, respect and discretion with which some people have treated what is strictly a private family matter”.

Messi had not played competitively since captaining his country in their 1-0 loss on 19 July. The 39-year-old scored eight goals and registered four assists during the tournament.

The forward was given a huge ovation by the Inter Miami home fans when he came on in the 53rd minute as his side led the Major League Soccer match 2-1.

He immediately had a chance but, from an acute angle, fired a left-foot shot into the side-netting.

Another opportunity quickly came Messi’s way but, after chesting down a Luis Suarez ball, he shot just wide.

Miami had taken the lead through Suarez’s audacious long range chipped strike for his seventh goal in four games.

Brazil midfielder Casemiro, who joined Miami in July after leaving Manchester United, inadvertently equalised for Columbus when he put the ball into his own net as he stretched to block a cross.

But Noah Allen headed the home side back in front before Brais Mendez curled in an 84th minute free-kick on his debut to earn Columbus Crew a draw.

Messi had a couple of chances for a winner in added time but put a looping header narrowly wide before sending a right-foot shot over the bar.

Ferran Torres’ extra-time strike saw Spain crowned world champions for a second time, ending Argentina’s defence of the title they won in 2022.

Messi has now lost two World Cup finals after Argentina were defeated 1-0 by Germany in 2014.

At 39 years old, Messi is unlikely to feature at the 2030 tournament, though he is yet to clarify his international future.

“The pain is immense, and this wound will take time to heal. But I also hold onto all the good things,” Messi wrote on social media.

“The matches we turned around by giving it our all – moments that will remain in our memories forever – and the support of an entire country which, combined with this group’s hard work and effort, brought us back among the world’s elite once again.

“It is hard to fully appreciate our achievement right now, but this group reached two consecutive World Cup finals.

“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for every greeting and message. Once again, we managed to unite as a country and stand together, sharing the immense pride of being Argentine.

“I also want to congratulate Spain on winning the championship.”

Messi contributed eight goals and four assists as Argentina reached the final for the third time in the past four World Cups.

He played a key role in his side coming from behind to beat Egypt and England in the knockout stages, but could not overcome a Spain side that conceded one goal in the whole tournament.

Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez, who was shown a second yellow card in second half injury time for a late challenge on Pau Cubarsi, wrote on social media that he and his team-mates had “defended these colors with pride, humility, and commitment”.

Fifa’s disciplinary committee has appointed a disciplinary and ethics prosecutor to investigate altercations between both sets of players at the full-time whistle.

“For years, this group has represented us in the best possible way. It teaches that competing isn’t just about winning; it’s about giving your all for the jersey and never giving up,” Fernandez added.

In 2007 Lamine Yamal’s parents won a charity photoshoot at Barcelona in which 20-year-old Messi held their five-month-old baby.

Speaking to Messi during a news conference in New York, NFL legend Tom Brady called the photos “very prophetic”.

Messi said: “That photo is incredible. The fact that we’re both playing in the World Cup now is crazy.”

Image source: Joan Monfort

Image caption: The picture of Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal from 2007

Lamine Yamal made his Barcelona debut at 15 and has inherited the number 10 shirt from Messi.

He helped Spain win Euro 2024 and, now aged 19, could become the youngest player to win the European Championships and the World Cup.

“He’s one of the best in the world right now,” said 39-year-old Messi.

“I wish him luck because his success will be Barcelona’s success.

“We’ll try to keep him from playing at his best. Spain has a great team, not just him.

“He’s a tremendous player – a global star. He’s 19 years old and has his whole career ahead of him. I wish him the best, but we’ll give it our all to ensure he doesn’t become champion this time.”

Messi attended a fans’ event on Friday with Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez and Spain captain Rodri.

After the news conference, Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni hugged Spain counterpart Luis de la Fuente, who was one of the instructors when Scaloni gained his Uefa Pro coaching licence in Spain.

Former England defender Rio Ferdinand and actor Kevin Hart hosted the event, while tennis legend Novak Djokovic and NBA star Kevin Durant joined Brady in asking questions.

Brady continued his ongoing feud with Logan Paul as they argued on stage before the record seven-time Super Bowl winner slapped the YouTuber turned WWE star, with New York Knicks player Karl-Anthony Towns splitting them up.

Given Lionel Messi is now 39 and Lamine Yamal just 19, it is testament to the former’s relentless perseverance and the latter’s precocious talent that a match featuring both can take place at all, never mind in the sport’s greatest fixture.

But this is far from the first time the two have crossed paths.

That happened in 2007, when a 20-year-old Messi had recently become a regular starter for Barcelona, and Lamine Yamal was only five months old.

The meeting is documented in a series of photographs taken by Joan Monfort.

They resurfaced two years ago, when Lamine Yamal helped Spain win Euro 2024, as his father posted one online with the caption “The beginning of two legends”.

In the photos, a smiling Messi is cradling and bathing a tiny baby boy who would inexplicably follow so closely in his footballing footsteps.

“It is a true miracle of destiny”, Monfort tells BBC Sport.

“It is serendipity – when you find something extra special, so much bigger than you ever thought.

“If you wrote this in a film it would not seem possible.”

‘Messi had no idea what to do with a baby’

The photoshoot took place in the away dressing room at Barcelona’s Camp Nou stadium.

Lamine Yamal’s family had won a competition to be there.

His parents, Morocco-born Mounir Nasraoui and Sheila Ebana from Equatorial Guinea, met after moving to Catalonia as children with their own families.

Lamine Yamal is their eldest child, and shortly after he was born, they entered a raffle run by Catalan newspaper Sport in conjunction with Barcelona shirt sponsor and international children’s charity Unicef.

Those selected at random would have professional photos taken of their baby with a Barcelona first-team player.

Lamine Yamal was among the winners, and on the day the family arrived, they were paired with Messi by chance.

Image source: Joan Monfort

Image caption: Lamine Yamal’s mother Sheila Ebana also took part in the photo shoot

“I had no idea it was Lamine in the photo until one my friends called me in 2024 and told me his father had posted it to Instagram,” Monfort explains.

“Messi is a really introverted guy, very timid and shy. He came into the dressing room and suddenly had to take these photos with a little baby – not even a kid, a proper baby and his face changed like he had no idea what to do!

“It is difficult for a young man, but Lamine was a very happy, smiley little baby. His mum Sheila helped us, she was a young girl and they were a very poor family, but they were very nice to work with.

“Messi was always a professional in these kinds of things and he adapted to the situation very quickly.”

Image source: Joan Monfort

Image caption: Messi still wore number 19 for Barcelona in 2007, only inheriting the number 10 shirt a year later when Ronaldinho left the club

‘I’ll never be able to repay my parents’

By his 19th birthday Messi had scored 11 career goals and won La Liga and the Uefa Champions League once each.

Having turned 19 on Monday, Lamine Yamal has already scored a whopping 56 goals and won La Liga three times and the Copa del Rey once, as well as Euro 2024.

Yamal is not actually the player’s surname, but the second of his two first names.

His full name is Lamine Yamal Naraoui Ebana, and he wears the former two on the back of his shirts for both Barcelona and Spain as an homage to two people who helped his family around the time of his birth.

It has been widely reported in Spanish media that Lamine Yamal’s father promised to name him after two friends who assisted the family financially, helping them to pay their bills at a time when money was tight.

Lamine is a common male first name in Arabic, which can be translated to English as honest or trustworthy, while Yamal is a variant of Jamal, meaning elegance or beauty.

He grew up in Rocafonda, a working-class neighbourhood in Mataro, 20 miles north of Barcelona.

The area was built in the 1960s to house migrants from other regions of Spain, and when they began to move to more well-off areas, migrants from other countries arrived in the 1990s.

Lamine Yamal has celebrated some of his goals by making a 3-0-4 gesture with his fingers, referring to Rocafonda’s postcode.

“What my mother has done, what my father has done, I couldn’t have done that for anyone who is not my child”, Yamal told El Pais in earlier in the tournament.

“If you don’t have money, it’s very hard to help your child play football. And my parents managed to make all that happen. It’s something I’ll never be able to repay them for.”

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: The famous photograph has been turned into a banner by Spain fans at Euro 2024 and the World Cup

‘My heart is breaking in two pieces’

For Monfort, a Catalan who supports Barcelona, an on-pitch meeting between the two is the perfect denouement to a story which began almost two decades ago.

“I think we are closing the cycle of their story,” Monfort, now 58, adds. “It is a happy end.

“I am a fan of Barcelona, and I think for Messi it’s perfect if he can finish his career winning the World Cup for the second time. I think he deserves it.

“And for Lamine he has a lot of time to win trophies like the World Cup. But Spain and Lamine are arriving in a good moment and if he wins it now, it would be worth more than his other titles.

“It is very difficult for me. My heart is breaking in two pieces.”

Image source:Getty Images

Image caption: Messi left Barcelona for Paris St-Germain in 2021, two years before the debut of a 15-year-old Yamal, who went on to inherit the number 10 shirt in 2025

He had finally won the World Cup, aged 35, in what he said was his last game in the tournament and – depending on your point of view – cemented his place as football’s greatest ever player.

Four years before that, aged 31, many – including those around him – felt he had played his final World Cup game and would end his career without winning it.

And here he is at 39, having helped take England to the cleaners and send Argentina to their second World Cup final in a row.

Messi’s two assists helped the South American side come from behind to win 2-1, taking him up to four assists at the 2026 World Cup – to go with his eight goals.

The joint top scorer and the second highest assister in the whole show.

Argentina will play Spain, the country where Messi has played most of his football with Barcelona, in Sunday’s final in New Jersey.

“He’s the best player in history, I don’t know what else he would have to do to prove that. The majority of Spaniards love him,” said his national team boss Lionel Scaloni.

BBC pundit Micah Richards said: “They have Lionel Messi. They have the ‘GOAT’. The greatest of all time.

“[It’s about] moments. We thought it could have been Jude Bellingham or Harry Kane, but this is why he is the king.”

How Messi destroyed English hopes

Former Barcelona and Paris St-Germain forward Messi had never played England in his career before – and Thomas Tuchel and every Three Lions fan will wish that was still the case.

The veteran showed a few quality touches in an attritional first half – playing more centrally – but it was after Anthony Gordon gave England a 55th-minute lead that Argentina came to life.

As Tuchel sent on more defenders and England sat back, Argentina had 88% possession for the following 37 minutes.

And Messi had a field day after moving out to the right wing.

“Getting Messi on the wing was the key for us,” said goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez afterwards.

He completed nine dribbles and assisted two goals against England – the first player on record (from 1966 onwards) to do so in a single World Cup knockout game.

The entire England team combined completed seven successful dribbles in Atlanta.

Messi had seven touches in the opposition box – the same as every English player added together. Ditto his four chances created.

He also put in a game-high nine crosses.

And by far the most important, he set up both of Argentina’s goals.

The first was from a corner routine when he found Enzo Fernandez, who slammed in an 85th-minute equaliser from outside the box.

And then he crossed for Lautaro Martinez to head in an injury-time winner.

Ex-England defender Richards said: “He walks around the pitch and then he comes alive when the ball comes to his feet.

“This genius comes into play and sometimes that is just the difference.”

Former England keeper Joe Hart added: “The guys went back to what they did against Mexico and Norway where they locked the door.

“What that did was free up Lionel Messi, who had the skeleton key – he absolutely ran the show for the last 15 minutes.”

England captain Kane added: “For large parts of the game we dealt with him really well, but as always with the most dangerous players in the world when they have the ball they can create something. He’s one of the best players ever for a reason.”

Can Messi win the Golden Boot?

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Lionel Messi is Argentina’s runaway international top scorer with 125 goals

This summer Messi became the all-time top scorer at World Cups with 21 goals (out of his 125 Argentina goals in total).

Fifteen of those 21 have come since his 35th birthday.

Eight have been at this tournament, passing the seven he scored in 2022 – which was just one short of Kylian Mbappe in the Golden Boot race.

This time Messi and Mbappe are level on eight goals. Mbappe’s France play England on Saturday in the third-place play-off.

England’s Bellingham and Kane are on six goals each and not out of the picture.

If players finish level on goals, the tie-breaker is assists – with Messi on four to Mbappe’s three.

Messi could yet finish as the top assister at this summer’s World Cup too – sitting one goal behind France’s Michael Olise.

Former England goalkeeper Paul Robinson, speaking to the BBC, said: “He’s a little magician, he really is.

“He’s done it all tournament now. You look at the goals scored and the balls he’s put into England’s box.”

Will Messi ever slow down?

It is easy to forget Messi, then at Barcelona and aged 29, actually retired from international football in 2016.

He had lost the 2014 World Cup final to Germany and three Copa America finals.

Since reversing that decision he has won the Copa America twice.

When Messi – then of PSG – lifted the World Cup in Qatar in 2022, it felt as if the final piece of the jigsaw of his career was complete.

Many considered that the final thing missing from the argument over the best player ever – with many considering fellow World Cup winners Pele and Diego Maradona the greatest.

“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,” he said before 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.”

And when he left Europe the next year to join Inter Miami in the MLS, it seemed like he was going to wind down.

Even during last year’s Fifa Club World Cup, which he played in, it was far from clear if he would be involved this summer.

But here he is, still seemingly unstoppable – even though his game has changed.

Before the England tie, he had walked 47% of the distance he covered in this tournament, the highest percentage of any outfield player.

Tactically he has reinvented himself at least five times, says Spanish journalist Guillem Balague, who wrote a biography on Messi.

Messi has now scored or assisted in 13 consecutive matches for Inter Miami and Argentina.

If he gets involved in a goal in Sunday’s final against Spain, it will equal his record set in 2011 of 14 in a row.

He will also become only the second player after Cafu to play in three World Cup finals.

Surely that will be his final World Cup game? After all, he turns 43 in 2030.

But maybe at this stage we need to stop presuming anything when it comes to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.

The defending champions fell behind when Yasser Ibrahim won a battle in the air with Lisandro Martinez, before heading beyond Emiliano Martinez to give Egypt a shock lead.

Just minutes later, Argentina won a penalty when Nicolas Tagliafico was brought down by Haissem Hassan, and Messi had the chance to hit back instantly.

But he could not add to his tournament-leading seven goals, as he missed his second penalty of the 2026 World Cup to become the first player in history to miss two penalties (excluding shoot-outs) in a World Cup campaign.

In the second half, Mostafa Ziko thought he put Egypt 2-0 up after a thrilling counter-attack goal, before it was ruled out for a foul in the build-up. 

However, Ziko eventually did get his goal and Egypt’s second in the 67th minute to send Argentina’s hopes of becoming the first team to retain the World Cup for 64 years into huge doubt.

With 11 minutes on the clock, Cristian Romero grabbed one back for Argentina, heading home Messi’s pinpoint delivery to set up a frantic finale.

Just four minutes later, the ball dropped to Messi in the box, and he smashed a first-time strike off the underside of the bar and over the line to send the Atlanta Stadium into chaos.

With the game set for extra time, Argentina burst forward through Lautaro Martinez, who swung in a deep cross from the right for Chelsea’s Enzo Fernandez to expertly guide a header into the far corner to clinch a dramatic win for Argentina.

It was close, but their title defence goes on, and they will play either Switzerland or Colombia in the quarter-final.

Footballing legends. National icons.

Argentina face Egypt in Atlanta on Tuesday (17:00 BST) for a place in the 2026 World Cup quarter-final. It is also a meeting of two of the game’s greatest players.

Messi, 39, and Salah, 34, are both in the autumn of their careers. Messi has already suggested this will be his last World Cup, although Salah is still hoping to play in 2030.

Their World Cup story is very different.

Messi is a World Cup winner. He is the tournament’s all-time top scorer, appearance maker and is joint top scorer this summer.

For Salah, it has been a different narrative. In his third World Cup for Egypt, this is his first time in the knockout rounds, with his country in the last 16 for the first time.

Egypt lost Africa Cup of Nations finals in 2017 and 2021 during his career, while Salah was involved in several public disagreements with the Egyptian Football Association over issues including image rights, travel arrangements and the team’s management.

His Panenka penalty helped his country make history though with a shootout victory over Australia in the last 32, and he will be hoping Tuesday will mark his biggest World Cup moment.

‘The closer to seeing a loved one leave, the more we miss them’

The most frequently mentioned word in Argentina right now is ‘bicampeonato’ (back-to-back World Cup championship).

But the question everybody is thinking, and nobody wants to mention, is ‘what will we do when Messi retires’?

Every new match the national team plays in the World Cup – such as the one against Egypt on Tuesday – is another step towards glory, a chance to achieve a feat only two other countries have managed (Italy in 1934 and 1938; Brazil in 1958 and 1962).

Yet, each match also brings us closer to the retirement of Argentine football’s greatest icon: the national team captain, Messi.

His goals in this tournament (seven), his new records (playing his sixth World Cup, scoring in eight consecutive World Cup matches), and dramatic encounters like the game against Cape Verde, have kept the country focused solely on the present moment.

To top it off, Messi is playing as if he were 25, not 39 years old.

But we all know that the man who led us to a World Cup victory (Qatar 2022) and two Copa America titles (Brazil 2021 and the United States 2024) is dancing his final tango in the albiceleste jersey.

So, every victory represents progress in the tournament but also one more opportunity to enjoy the man who managed to reach the same heights as Diego Maradona in our pantheon of football gods.

Interestingly, many Argentine sports journalists have criticised the fact that, in this World Cup, the national team has once again become “Messi-dependent”.

One of the great achievements attributed to manager Lionel Scaloni was being the first coach to build a team that complemented Messi rather than relying on him.

In the years prior to Scaloni’s arrival, the national team had endured a string of heartbreaks – the 2014 World Cup final loss in Brazil and two Copa America defeats on penalties in the final (Chile 2015 and the United States 2016) – but that changed under the current manager.

Now, only four of the 11 goals Argentina have scored in the United States were not netted by Messi; the two main strikers – Lautaro Martinez and Julian Alvarez – seem to play merely as providers for the great captain, and the creative midfielders who stepped up in previous tournaments – Enzo Fernandez and Alexis Mac Allister – seem more focused on defending their own goal than on attacking the opponent’s.

As in a personal relationship, it seems that the closer we come to seeing a loved one leave, the more we need them.

‘He is pride, joy and inspiration’

Salah is much more than a footballer, he is pride, joy and inspiration.

He inspires millions of Egyptians every day. His story, from a small village in Nagrig to the biggest football stadiums in the world, makes every Egyptian feel proud.

He shows us that with hard work and belief, anything is possible. People see him and feel hope, not just in football, but in life.

What makes Salah even more special is who he is as a person. He is humble, calm and respectful. No matter how big he becomes, he never forgets where he came from. He always represents Egypt in the best way, and this is something we all truly value and admire.

Today, as we watch Egypt in the World Cup, the feeling is different when Salah is on the pitch.

When Egypt beat Australia in a tough match decided by penalties, the whole country was living every second together.

Hearts were beating fast, families were gathered, and when we won, it felt like one big celebration across Egypt. Salah was at the centre of that feeling – leading, inspiring and giving confidence to everyone.

Egyptians love Salah deeply. He brings people together and gives us moments we will always remember. When he plays, you can feel the whole country behind him, proud and hopeful.

To me personally, Salah inspires strength, patience and belief. He reminds us to always keep going and to stay true to ourselves.

Salah is not just a football star, he is a symbol of pride for every Egyptian.

Messi, 39, leads the Golden Boot standings with five goals from his first two matches, including a double against Austria that made him the World Cup’s all-time record goalscorer.

Scaloni said the decision to rest the superstar was not injury related as he spoke before the match in Dallas, which will kick-off at 03:00 BST on Sunday.

“Leo [Messi] will most likely come on in the second half,” he said.

“We talked and agreed that it was better that way, but obviously it’s also good for him to stay in competitive form.”

He added: “The decision of who plays tomorrow is not related to who plays in the next match.

“Jordan is a good opponent, and our intention will be to have the ball and dominate through possession. The opponent’s forwards are fast and we will have to take that into account.”

Kylian Mbappe failed to add to his four goals in France’s 4-1 win over Norway, a game that saw Erling Haaland, also on four goals, stay on the bench.

But Ousmane Dembele put himself into Golden Boot contention with a first-half hat-trick to move to four goals for the tournament.

The 38-year-old was also making history, becoming the World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer, and demonstrating that he still lays claim to being the king of world football.

And there was more to come as Messi fired home his second goal of the game from a tight angle past two Austria defenders to wrap up a 2-0 victory.

Messi is enjoying a scintillating start to the tournament as Argentina defend their title.

With a hat-trick in the opening game, two goals and the record broken in the second, and a third game against Jordan to come, he is a strong contender for the Golden Boot, awarded to the top goalscorer at the finals – one individual prize he has never won.

Messi has now scored in six consecutive World Cup matches, a feat only achieved by two other players – France’s Just Fontaine in 1958 and Brazil’s Jairzinho in 1970.

No player has ever scored in seven straight matches.

The Inter Miami forward has also created the most chances in World Cup history – he is one assist away from providing more than any other player since records began in 1966, according to Opta.

He currently shares that record with his idol, Maradona.

A new generation of superstars like Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Vinicius Jr may already be making their own marks on the tournament, but if they want to claim the crown, they are going to have to outperform Messi.

So how exactly can Messi – who turns 39 on Wednesday and has been playing in Major League Soccer (MLS) for three years – still be delivering rampant, raucous performances on the biggest stage of all?

‘I didn’t think Messi could still do it’

When Messi – then aged 31 – and Argentina were knocked out by France in a seven-goal classic in Russia in 2018, the days of him delivering tournament-defining performances in the World Cup could have been over.

But four years later he captained his country to the trophy in Qatar, scoring seven goals, and after a further four he has become the first ever player to score in six consecutive World Cup matches.

Olivier Giroud was part of the France side which went on to win that 2018 edition, and still playing in Ligue 1 himself at 39, can relate to Messi’s situation and believes a player’s competition with himself is more important than thinking about the younger generation.

“It’s clear just how passionate Messi still is for football and you can tell it’s in his DNA to always be a competitor, and to try and outdo himself more than anyone else,” Giroud says.

“Playing at a high level at our age, you have to pay close attention to your life hygiene – how you sleep, your diet, and taking care of your body, because that’s the thing you rely on for work.

“The key thing is still having the desire, the motivation, the passion, to keep going.”

Messi is not the only global sports superstar to have continued laying down gauntlets for younger rivals into their late 30s – tennis’ Novak Djokovic being perhaps the most impressive example in recent years.

But doing so requires a combination of relentless dedication to physical fitness and unerring self-belief.

“Players know themselves inside out by that age, so there’s not a lot left to teach them about how to manage as they get older,” says Michael Caulfield, a sports psychologist working in professional football for more than 20 years.

“From a physical point of view, they take advantage of every breakthrough in sports science.

“But mentally, it’s about whether they have the capacity in their minds to deal with the daily grind. They have to be willing to spend the whole year working hard on the same things, and if you’ve been doing that for 25 years, that takes huge self-discipline.

“They have to maintain the sheer will to go through the rehab process after injuries when they know they’ve already won everything.

“All the top athletes I’ve ever known, they’re all willing to try and go back one more time, because they love doing what they do.

“It’s the same reason you still see Bruce Springsteen or Madonna touring – it is completely intrinsic to who these stars are.”

Messi’s incredible ability with the ball at his feet has helped compensate for any lost athleticism over the years.

“Coming into this World Cup, I pretty much wrote Argentina’s chances off because I didn’t think he could carry on [at that level] for another one,” says Wayne Rooney, part of the Manchester United team which lost the 2009 and 2011 Champions League finals to Barcelona and Messi, who scored in both and was man of the match in the latter.

“The one thing age can never take away from players is their ability with the ball. You put him around the penalty box and he has the ability to do things others can’t.

“It’ll be interesting to see whether it can last the rest of the tournament. [If it does] then it wouldn’t surprise me if we see him in the next World Cup for Argentina as well.”

‘Messi loves football like a little boy’

Generally considered a reserved and humble character, Messi has occasionally demonstrated a will to revel in his personal stardom, including when he hoisted aloft his own shirt in front of Real Madrid fans after scoring an injury-time winner in an El Clasico victory in 2017.

“When he crosses the white line, he is a very different person,” says his former Barcelona team-mate Cesc Fabregas in the BBC iPlayer documentary Rivals: Messi vs Ronaldo. “He wants to win at any cost.”

That relentless desire to succeed can underpin a sports career long after a star like Messi has achieved everything their discipline has to offer, as can the sheer love of the game of itself.

“Athletes always think there’s something left to achieve,” says Caulfield. “They’re wondering if there is something they haven’t quite mastered yet.

“But more than anything they want to keep feeling that childlike joy of doing what they love. You see Messi still doing keepy-ups or a rondo, and he still loves football like a little boy.”

Messi’s incredible display drew stark contrast with his perennial rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, who is playing in his sixth World Cup with Portugal.

The 41-year-old made very little impact in his side’s opening draw with DR Congo, and those who know him best believe Messi’s display will have played on his mind.

“Ronaldo will have been fuming,” Rooney says. “Even at 41 he will still be expecting to be top goalscorer. But that attitude is part of his own greatness. The two of them have spurred each other on.

“They have this self-belief and arrogance, in a good way, where they know they what they have done, have nothing to prove, and it’s up to the likes of Mbappe and Haaland to prove they can take over.”

The forward, who turns 39 on Wednesday, got his 17th and 18th goals at tournaments to move two clear of Germany striker Miroslav Klose, whose tally came between 2002 and 2014.

Messi’s milestone moment came in the 38th minute of the Group J encounter in Dallas, sweeping home a first-time finish from just inside the penalty area after Thiago Almada had cleverly let Facundo Medina’s pull-back go through his legs to tee up his team-mate.

The talismanic frontman’s second came in second-half injury-time as he fired home from a tight angle past two Austrian defenders after Julian Alvarez had been denied by keeper Alexander Schlager.

However, Messi could have broken the record earlier in the match.

After only eight minutes, Argentina were awarded a penalty following Stefan Posch’s foul on Lautaro Martinez, with Austrian defender Xaver Schlager also making a challenge, but Messi fired the spot-kick wide.

That disappointment soon turned to celebration, though, in another display of his class on a historic night.

He is now the top scorer in the 2026 competition, with five goals in two matches following a hat-trick in the 3-0 win over Algeria in their opening group game.

Before Messi’s second, Austria – managed by former Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick – had a chance to make it 1-1.

But Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez pushed away a powerful free-kick from Marcel Sabitzer, who was making his 100th international appearance.

Argentina, with six points, now join Mexico, the United States and Germany in having qualified for the last 32, and they will be confirmed as Group J winners if Jordan do not beat Algeria in the later game (Tuesday, 04:00 BST).

Having beaten Jordan in their opener, Austria still remain in contention on three points.

World Cup top goalscorers

• 18 Lionel Messi (Argentina, 2006-2026)
• 16 Miroslav Klose (Germany, 2002-2014)
• 15 Ronaldo (Brazil, 1994-2006)
• 14 Gerd Muller (West Germany, 1970-1974)
• 14 Kylian Mbappe (France, 2018-2026)
• 13 Just Fontaine (France, 1958)
• 12 Pele (Brazil, 1958-1970)
• 11 Sandor Kocsis (Hungary, 1954)
• 11 Jurgen Klinsmann (West Germany and Germany, 1990-1998)
• 10 Helmut Rahn (West Germany, 1954-1958)
• 10 Gary Lineker (England, 1986-1990)
• 10 Gabriel Batistuta (Argentina, 1994-2002)
• 10 Harry Kane (England, 2018-2026)
• 10 Teofilo Cubillas (Peru, 1970-1982)
• 10 Thomas Muller (Germany, 2010-2022)
• 10 Grzegorz Lato (Poland, 1974-1982)

“At this time, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing,” the statement said.

Messi was in tears after scoring his first goal in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria in their opening World Cup match earlier this week.

Argentina’s captain, 38, went on to complete a hat-trick, drawing level with Miroslav Klose at the top of the all-time World Cup goalscoring list.

“Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football,” Messi said after the match.

“I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my team-mates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it.”

The family addressed the speculation around Jorge Messi’s health following that opening game.

“In light of speculation that has circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep discomfort with the lack of sensitivity, respect, and discretion with which some people have treated what is strictly a private family matter.

“The family also wishes to clarify that only his closest relatives have real and accurate information regarding Jorge’s condition. Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come directly from the family and its official channels should not be considered valid or truthful.”

The statement continued: “At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence, and humanity. A person’s health and the peace of mind of those around them should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest.

“We sincerely appreciate the expressions of affection, respect, and concern we have received, and we ask that Jorge’s privacy, confidentiality, and intimacy – as well as that of his entire family – be respected throughout this process.”

Argentina’s next group game is against Austria on Monday 22 June (18:00 BST), before their final group game against Jordan on Sunday 28 June (03:00 BST).

The Argentina captain claimed a magnificent hat-trick on his 200th appearance for his country as his side made the perfect start to their World Cup defence.

After a curling home a wonderful opener after 18 minutes, the 38-year-old was swarmed by team-mates in celebration before being spotted wiping away tears on his shirt.

“Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football,” said Messi.

“I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my team-mates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it.”

Messi’s hat-trick, which was his first at a World Cup, took his finals goal tally to 16, moving him level with Germany’s Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading scorer in the competition’s history.

Messi also became the first player in history to feature at six World Cups, 20 years to the day since his debut at the tournament, where he scored in a 6-0 win over Serbia and Montenegro.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner’s performance helped Argentina win their opening match at a World Cup as defending champions for the first time, after defeats in 1982 and 1990.

Messi’s record-breaking performance followed doubts about his fitness after he was substituted early due to muscle fatigue last month in his last MLS match with Inter Miami before the World Cup.

“It makes me very happy to have lived through everything that came my way,” Messi added.

“What I’m living through now is the cherry on top. I’m very happy and grateful for this wonderful group, I enjoy it so much.”

Messi was substituted after 80 minutes against Algeria to a standing ovation as his name echoed around the Kansas City Stadium.

Messi inspired Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022 to win the one trophy which had long eluded him, and he will be essential to Argentina’s hopes of becoming only the third nation to defend the trophy.

“There are no words to describe him. If anyone thought this team was better without Leo, today it was proven that the opposite is true,” said Argentina midfielder Alexis Mac Allister.

“He is our most important player. We need to build a team around him, and we are doing it.”

Argentina’s second match in Group J is against Austria on Monday 22 June (18:00 BST).

Hours after France’s Kylian Mbappe and Norway’s Erling Haaland had lit up the World Cup with two goals each, the stage was set.

But this was no supporting act, this was the main show. The Messi show.

His first World Cup hat-trick, a record-equalling 16th World Cup goal, and another reminder that despite his age, he isn’t going away.

Argentina beat Algeria 3-0, and Messi was at the centre of it all.

As the sun dipped behind the Kansas City skyline, the 38-year-old became the first player in history to feature at six World Cups – beating rival Cristiano Ronaldo by a day.

Twenty years ago to the day after his World Cup debut as an 18-year-old at Germany 2006, one of the game’s greatest superstars looked as sharp as ever in delivering another spectacular performance on his 200th appearance for his country.

There were a few moments of concern after his opener when Messi’s studs caught the top of Aissa Mandi’s heel just past the half hour mark but, no action was taken, and the Argentine took full advantage.

Afterwards, he said: “To enjoy this with my family, with my team-mates, the ones who are always there, is a really beautiful moment.

“The squad, it’s a very united, very strong group. I feel good; we were lucky enough to win a tough match. It’s important to start off with a win in the first game.

“I’m grateful to the fans, because once again they’ve shown that Argentina is crazy about this – we packed the stadium again.

“Everything I’m experiencing now is a bonus. I’ve been fortunate enough to achieve all my dreams — or even more than I ever dreamed of achieving — both professionally and personally.”

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni, added: “I don’t have the words to describe Messi. For 20 years, he’s had us used to seeing things like this and he inspires everyone who watches him play.”

‘Messi is celebrating like it’s his first World Cup goal’

There was an early glimpse of what was to come.

Four minutes in, Messi raced clear and put the ball past Algeria’s keeper, Luca Zidane, only for the offside flag to prevent what would have been a fairytale start. Fans celebrated as if they had won the World Cup. Journalists turned to each other with a look of the inevitable. It was happening. This was just a delay.

By the 18th minute, Messi’s moment arrived. Twenty-five yards out, he shifted on to his left foot and curled a superb effort towards the top-right corner.

Goalkeeper Zidane – son of France legend Zinedine – got both hands to it, but the strike had too much power. Kansas City Stadium exploded with noise as Argentina fans celebrated a tearful Messi’s 14th World Cup goal. It was the start of a historic evening.

As former Everton midfielder Leon Osman observed: “Messi is celebrating like it’s his first World Cup goal. With the ability he has, he never seems to age. It’s a brilliant ball into his feet and, as you’d expect, he finishes it superbly.”

Two decades on from his first appearance on this stage, and now in a record 27th World Cup match, Messi continues to defy his age. Throughout the match, he was constantly scanning for options, constantly anticipating Argentina’s next move. He looked fit, fast and threatening.

After 60 minutes, Messi struck again. A costly error from Zidane allowed the ball to roll into Messi’s path. With typical composure, Messi placed the ball into the net to move within one goal of becoming the joint-top scorer in World Cup history. In doing so, he became the oldest player to score two goals at the World Cup.

To this point, age has not blunted Messi’s ability. Since turning 35, he has scored 10 World Cup goals – more than Harry Kane, Diego Maradona, Cristiano Ronaldo and Thierry Henry have each scored in total.

The moment of history

In the 76th minute, Messi completed his hat-trick, having been teed up by substitute Nico Gonzalez. It was written in the stars.

And it meant that Messi had drawn level at the top of the all-time World Cup finals scoring chart with Germany’s Miroslav Klose.

With his arms raised, his eyes lifted to the sky, and thousands of Argentina fans cheering his name, he took it in. Even for Messi, this felt special. He turned to thank the thousands of supporters watching on as the stadium filled with noise.

As he was substituted, he left the pitch to a standing ovation. His name echoed around Kansas City.

Well beyond the final whistle, thousands of Argentina fans stayed in the stadium to continue the party.

It was a sea of blue and white, with drums beating relentlessly and Argentina fans in full voice.

Many wore Messi’s name on their backs, others showed off their tattoos of him. His name dominated every conversation.

For them, he is more than a player. ‘Hero’, ‘Idol’, ‘Our son’ are words Argentina fans here used to describe him.

He inspired Argentina to the World Cup four years ago. Who would back against Messi taking his country all the way again?

Even Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, usually the headline act in this stadium, watched on like everyone else, captivated by Messi’s magic.

On a day of superstars, the ageless Argentine stood above them all.

World Cup all-time top scorers

Messi lucky not to see red?

It would have been very different had Messi been shown a red card for a challenge in the first half with Argentina 1-0 ahead.

His studs appeared to go down the back of Mandi’s calf but neither referee Szymon Marciniak nor the video assistant referee (VAR) deemed it worthy of further action.

Former Manchester City defender Nedum Onuoha told ESPN: “It should have been a red card.

“The moment was missed. When the player was on the floor, you could see Messi had a level of concern because he had done something that could get him in trouble.”

Former France and Arsenal striker Thierry Henry told Fox Sports: “Intent is very important when you analyse these situations properly.

“When you watch it again, you can clearly see that Lionel Messi is focused on the ball and trying to make a football action, not trying to hurt anyone.

“Yes, there is contact. Yes, it looks awkward. But not every collision is a red card.”

And the mini magician equalled Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup goalscoring record with his third goal, bent from outside the penalty area into the bottom corner, just hours after Kylian Mbappe took his overall tally to only two behind the German great.

La Albiceleste got the defence of their title off to the perfect start in Kansas City with a clinical performance against the AFCON quarter-finalists, who had a first-half goal ruled out for a tight offside but whose threat diminished as the game progressed.

Messi sent the crowd into raptures after only six minutes when he latched onto a Lautaro Martinez pass and lifted it over Luca Zidane, but the goal was rightly ruled out for offside and moments later Fares Chaibi saw a carbon-copy effort also disallowed.

But Argentina didn’t have to wait long to get on the scoreboard, as Messi collected a Rodrigo De Paul pass between the lines, drove towards the penalty area then smashed his swerving shot through Zidane – son of French icon Zinedine – and into the net.

Argentina’s rotation between the midfield and forward lines caused trouble for Algeria throughout, but it took until the hour mark for them to make it really count again, when Zidane spilled an Alexis Mac Allister shot from distance and Messi was the quickest player to react, poking the ball into the bottom corner.

Algeria benched captain Riyad Mahrez in favour of a more youthful attack but rarely exposed the Argentine defence, and failed to record a shot on target all night despite throwing more and more men forwards as the game progressed.

And Messi wrote his name into the history books moments after a penalty shout was waved away, starting the counter with a clever pass to Nico Gonzalez, before recovering the ball and curling his third goal into the corner. He soon left the field for Nico Paz to a standing ovation.

Argentina’s next match is before Les Bleus’, so Messi will have the chance to break Klose’s record ahead of Mbappe, when La Seleccion face Austria on Monday. But even more importantly than that, it was a dominant performance by the defending champions in all phases of play as everyone in blue and white played their part.

After a year spent playing mostly inferior opposition, they showed they’ve lost none of their sharpness, putting a fancied Algeria side to the sword and now with one foot already in the knockout round.

Meanwhile, The Fennecs’ World Cup dreams are far from over, but they will need more incision to get their campaign back on track against Jordan.

The forward, who will turn 39 during the tournament, was named in Lionel Scaloni’s 26-man squad on Thursday after leading his country to a third World Cup triumph in Qatar four years ago with a penalty shootout victory over France.

With 26 appearances, Messi holds the current record for the most World Cup matches by any player – and will join Portugal forward Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, as the only male players to appear in a sixth edition of football’s biggest event this summer.

Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez, who was named the goalkeeper of the tournament in 2022, has been selected, as have Manchester United’s Lisandro Martinez and Tottenham’s Cristian Romero, who missed the end of the Premier League season with a knee injury.

Liverpool midfielder Alexis Mac Allister and Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernandez are also among the five British-based players in the squad for the finals, which will be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Atletico Madrid’s Julian Alvarez and Inter’s Lautaro Martinez are among 17 players who lifted the trophy in 2022 returning to bid to retain it.

Argentina are in Group J and begin their campaign in Kansas City against Algeria (Wednesday, 17 June, 02:00 BST), before they play two games in Dallas, against Austria (Monday, 22 June, 18:00 BST) and Jordan (Sunday, 28 June, 02:00 BST).

Messi had been substituted during Inter Miami’s latest Major League Soccer match on Monday, but his club said he had not sustained an injury and was suffering from “muscle fatigue” in his left hamstring.

He has made 198 appearances for Argentina and will reach the 200-mark if he plays in both of his country’s friendly matches – against Honduras in Texas (Sunday, 7 June, 01:00 BST) and then against Iceland in Alabama (Tuesday, 9 June).

Notable absentees include in-form Aston Villa attacker Emi Buendia, whose Europa League final stunner was named goal of the tournament, forward Paolo Dybala, whose season at Roma has been disrupted by injury, and 18-year-old Real Madrid winger Franco Mastantuono.

With one cap, Benfica winger Gianluca Prestianni also misses out, after Fifa said he would sit out the first two games of the tournament for abusing Vinicius Jr.

Argentina World Cup squad

Goalkeepers: Juan Musso (Atletico Madrid), Geronimo Rulli (Marseille), Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa).

Defenders: Leonardo Balerdi (Marseille), Nicolas Tagliafico (Lyon), Gonzalo Montiel (River Plate), Lisandro Martinez (Manchester United), Cristian Romero (Tottenham), Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica), Facundo Medina (Marseille), Nahuel Molina (Atletico Madrid).

Midfielders: Leandro Paredes (River Plate), Rodrigo de Paul (Inter Miami), Valentin Barco (Strasbourg), Giovani lo Celso (Real Betis), Ezequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen), Alexis Mac Allister (Liverpool), Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea).

Forwards: Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid), Lionel Messi (Inter Miami), Nicolas Gonzalez (Atletico Madrid), Thiago Almada (Atletico Madrid), Giuliano Simeone (Atletico Madrid), Nico Paz (Como), Jose Manuel Lopez (Palmeiras), Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan).

The Major League Soccer club’s update provided no clear timetable for the Argentine superstar’s return after his abrupt exit from Miami’s 6-4 victory over Philadelphia in the 73rd minute on Sunday.

The 38-year-old icon for the defending World Cup champions grabbed the back of his left leg and asked to come off, but appeared to be walking normally as he made his exit to the locker room.

“After undergoing further medical tests this Monday, the initial diagnosis indicates an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring,” Inter Miami said in a statement.

“The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress.”

That gave precious little indication about the status of the eight-time Ballon D’Or winner as Argentina prepares to defend the crown in a World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico that kicks off June 11.

Argentina’s first match will be five days later against Algeria in Kansas City.

Messi has managed his workload since joining Inter Miami in 2023, with team staff regularly excusing him from matches in congested fixture periods.

MLS has started a break for the World Cup.

Messi has not formally confirmed he plans to play in the World Cup, but is widely expected to return for what would be a record-matching sixth appearance at the finals.

Argentina’s squad is due to be named next week and the South American giants will journey to the United States for pre-World Cup friendlies against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9.

Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos later suggested the 38-year-old forward’s replacement against the Philadelphia Union was precautionary because of pitch conditions in a wet Miami.

The 2022 World Cup winner came off in the 73rd minute of the game after clutching the back of his left leg, but appeared to be walking normally as he headed straight down the tunnel.

“As far as I know, we don’t have a [medical] report on that yet, but he really was fatigued,” Hoyos said after the game when asked about Messi’s condition.

“He was tired; the pitch was heavy and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don’t take any risks.”

Messi has not formally confirmed he plans to play for the defending champions in the World Cup, which begins on 11 June, but is widely expected to return for what will be a record-equalling sixth appearance at the finals which are being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Argentina’s squad is due to be named next week, with their opening game against Algeria on 16 June.

Since moving to Miami in 2023, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has carefully managed his workload but has still spent spells on the sideline with hamstring issues.

The Catalonia-based club, well known for player development and their academy, have produced stars such as Jordi Alba and Gerard Martín as well as Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.

“Leo Messi’s arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter in the club’s history, aimed at driving both sporting and institutional growth, strengthening its foundations, and continuing to invest in talent,” the club said in a news release.

“The project is guided by a long-term vision and a strategic plan that combines ambition, sustainability, and a strong connection to its local roots.”

Alba spent two years at the Cornellà academy before signing with Barcelona in 2012. Ilie Sánchez also came up through the academy ranks before joining Barcelona’s B side moving to MLS with various clubs, including current team Austin FC.

Though this acquisition stands as Messi’s first venture into owning a European football club, it is not his first investment in club ownership. He is partner of Uruguayan pro team Deportivo LSM alongside his Inter Miami CF and former Barcelona teammate Luis Suárez.

Messi’s investment into Cornellà also stands as the latest commitment to youth football, after hosting eight under-16 teams in the inaugural Messi Cup at Chase Stadium in December 2025.

The Argentina international scored the landmark goal after just seven minutes at Geodis Park in Tennessee in the Concacaf Champions Cup last-16 second leg tie.

The 38-year-old forward has found the back of the net 81 times in 92 appearances since signing in June 2023 to help Inter Miami win the League Cup and MLS Cup.

Messi – regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time – has also scored a plethora of goals for Barcelona, Paris St‑Germain and Argentina during a glittering career in which he has won the Ballon d’Or eight times.

Here, BBC Sport delves into the numbers behind his latest milestone.

Breaking records from the beginning

Since becoming the youngest scorer in Barcelona’s history at 17 years, 10 months and seven days old – Messi hasn’t stopped scoring.

It took the forward only three minutes to find the back of the net after replacing Samuel Eto’o in the second half of a La Liga fixture against Albacete in May 2005.

It was his first of 672 goals during a legendary 17-year career with the Catalan club.

In total, he made 778 appearances for Barcelona, helping them to 10 La Liga titles, seven Copa del Rey trophies, four Champions Leagues, three Super Cups and three Fifa Club World Cups before leaving to join PSG in 2021.

Although his time in the French capital only lasted two seasons, Messi still managed 32 goals in 75 games for the Ligue 1 club as part of a formidable front three alongside Neymar Jr and Kylian Mbappe.

After his contract at the Parc des Princes expired at the end of the 2022-23 campaign, Messi – who led Argentina to a World Cup triumph six months earlier in Qatar – joined MLS side Inter Miami, co-owned by David Beckham.

On the international stage, the frontman has 196 caps for Argentina, scoring 115 goals for the three-time world champions.

How did he score?

According to Opta, Messi has:

• Scored 755 of his 900 goals with his left foot
• He has scored 111 times with his right foot, 30 times with his head and four goals are counted as ‘other’.
• He has found the back of the net 724 times from inside the box, with 176 of his goals coming outside the area
• He has scored 112 penalties and 70 free-kicks

The teams Messi has scored the most goals against in his career to date are: Sevilla (25), Athletic Club (24), Atletico Madrid (23), Valencia (18), Real Madrid (17) and Levante (16).

Ronaldo and Pele – who else has hit 900 mark?

It is no surprise Messi joins long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo in such an illustrious group.

Ronaldo, 41, reached 900 goals after scoring for Portugal against Croatia in September 2024.

Since then, the former Manchester United and Real Madrid forward has scored a further 59 times for club and country to take his career tally to 959.

Messi and Ronaldo – who have won the Ballon d’Or a combined 13 times – are the only players in the history of the men’s game to reach the 900-goal landmark.

Legendary forward Pele claimed to have scored more than 1,000 times during a career with Brazil, Santos and New York Cosmos.

But statisticians at RSSSF rebutted the statistics and said he only scored 778 official goals.

Meanwhile, Brazil’s 1994 World Cup hero Romario has 785 strikes to his name.

Historic 2012 feat shows why ‘Leo is one of a kind’

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Messi and Mascherano were part of the Barcelona side that won the Champions League in 2011

In the build-up to last weekend’s game against DC United, Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano described Messi as “one of a kind”.

The former Liverpool and West Ham midfielder, 41, shared the pitch with his compatriot during his playing days at Barcelona and Argentina, before the pair were reunited in November 2024 when he was appointed manager of the MLS club.

In 2012, Messi set the record for the most goals in a calendar year (91), with 79 for Barcelona and 12 with Argentina.

He is also the fastest player to score 100 Champions League goals, doing so in just 123 outings.

“[I am] a privileged spectator, nothing more, nothing less,” said Mascherano. “I haven’t contributed much to him scoring goals, neither with assists, nor now as a coach.

“I’ve been lucky enough to see most, or many, of the goals he’s scored, much closer than you all, and that’s a privilege.

“The number we’re talking about [900] is insane, and that’s why Leo is one of a kind.”

Inter Miami won the championship game of the nation’s top-flight division, Major League Soccer, for the first time back in December.

The club, co-owned by former England captain David Beckham, received an invitation to visit the White House before their MLS match against DC United in Washington on Saturday.

Messi and his team-mates stood on stage as Trump addressed the media, celebrating their achievement after providing an update on the ongoing US and Israeli strikes on Iran.

Trump said: “My son [Barron] said, ‘Dad, do you know who’s going to be there today?’ I said, ‘no, I’ve got a lot of things going on’.

“He said, ‘Messi!’ He’s a big fan of yours. He thinks you’re a great person and I think you got to meet a little while ago.”

Argentina icon Messi, 38, committed his future to Miami in October with a new deal until 2028.

The former Barcelona and Paris St-Germain forward became the first player in MLS history to win the Most Valuable Player award in back-to-back seasons.

Addressing Messi, Trump added: “Leo claimed the 47th trophy of his incredible career – the most of all time.

“You could have gone anywhere in the world, any team in the world, and you chose Miami. I just want to thank you for bringing us all on this ride.”

Trump added: “I shouldn’t say this because I’m old, but I watched Pele play. I don’t know, you may be better than Pele. Pele was pretty good.”

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Lionel Messi has won consecutive MVP awards in the MLS

Image source: Getty Images

Image source: Getty Images

Image source: Getty Images

Boateng joined the Spanish giants on loan from Serie A side Sassuolo in a surprise move in January 2019. At his unveiling, the former midfielder described Barcelona as the best club in the world and hailed Messi as the game’s finest player.

However, speaking seven years later, the 38-year-old revealed that those comments were not genuine but rather a condition he felt was necessary to fit in at the Camp Nou.

“When I signed for Barcelona, they told me: your favourite team is Barcelona, and the best player in the world is Lionel Messi. I had to lie at another press conference in order to play, and without that, I would not have been able to play for Barcelona; it would have been impossible,” Boateng said.

“I know this has happened to other players as well. I was sitting there at the press conference, and the first question I was asked was: who is the best player in the world? And I answered: Lionel Messi,” he added during a podcast appearance.

Boateng’s spell at Barcelona was brief and largely uneventful, as he made just four appearances without scoring.

A known Real Madrid supporter and long-time admirer of Cristiano Ronaldo, Boateng later left Barcelona for Fiorentina before returning to his boyhood club, Hertha Berlin, where he retired from professional football in 2023.

On Monday, thousands of fans gathered in a Delhi stadium to get a glimpse of the Argentina and Inter Miami forward.

As Messi, accompanied by Inter Miami team-mates Luis Suárez and Rodrigo De Paul, strolled on the pitch – kicking balls into the stands, passing with a group of children and signing autographs – the crowd chanted his name.

His flight from Mumbai had been delayed due to fog, local media reported, and his itinerary had to be trimmed. On Saturdayangry fans vandalised a Kolkata stadium because they didn’t get to see him during his appearance there.

Getty Images

A fan holds a jersey of Messi at the event in Delhi

AFP via Getty Image

Messi played football with children at a stadium in Delhi

Messi had a packed schedule in India, attending a string of promotional events in Kolkata, Hyderabad and Mumbai since arriving in the early hours of Saturday.

Before heading to Kolkata’s Salt Lake Stadium later that day, he virtually unveiled a 70ft (21m) statue of himself, assembled over 27 days by a 45-strong crew in the eastern city.

The tour, however, got off to a disastrous start after angry fans ripped up seats and threw items towards the pitch at the stadium.

Football is hugely popular in West Bengal state – of which Kolkata is the capital – and thousands of adoring supporters had paid up to 12,000 rupees (£100; $133) to attend the event.

However, most of them didn’t even get to see him as he was surrounded by officials and celebrities on his brief walk around the stadium and then quickly whisked away as the situation turned hostile.

Kolkata’s The Telegraph newspaper said in an editorial that “poor management of a hyped-up event, lack of co-ordination” and security lapses turned the stadium into a “battlefield”, as fans – denied even a glimpse of Messi – “vented their anger by indulging in violence”.

The ruckus, which made international headlines, cast a shadow over Messi’s first visit to India since 2011 for what has been called a ‘GOAT [greatest of all time] tour’.

The event organiser in Kolkata has been arrested, police said, and a city court has remanded Satadru Dutta to 14 days in police custody.

Messi’s visits to Hyderabad and Mumbai passed off smoothly, with fans sharing their delight at seeing the global icon online and in media interviews.

Anadolu via Getty Images

Messi virtually unveiled a 70ft statue of himself in Kolkata

Getty Images

Messi met Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar in Mumbai

Messi also met several politicians and celebrities – Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan in Kolkata (at his hotel before the stadium fiasco), opposition leader Rahul Gandhi in Hyderabad, and cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar in Mumbai.

In between these interactions, Messi could be seen waving to large fan gatherings in stadiums and dribbling the ball with groups of children.

There were reports earlier that Messi would meet Narendra Modi in Delhi, but the Indian prime minister left the country on Monday morning on a scheduled visit to Jordan, Ethiopia and Oman.

Messi’s popularity stems not just from his long international career and wide TV coverage of European football – he’s record scorer for Barcelona, the team he used to play for – but also the emotional connection that millions of Indians have with what is often called the beautiful game.

The debate over football’s greatest player of all time (GOAT) is one that has rumbled across generations – but India has cast its vote.

Fresh from leading Inter Miami to a historic MLS Cup, Messi is heading to India for a three-day ‘GOAT Tour’.

Accompanied by club-mates Luis Suarez and Rodrigo de Paul, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will unveil a statue of himself in Kolkata on Saturday.

It has been assembled over the course of 27 days by a 45-strong crew and stands at a mammoth 70ft.

The tour begins in Kolkata at 10:30am local time (05:00 GMT) on Saturday, before heading to Hyderabad, Mumbai and Delhi.

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: A life-sized Lionel Messi sitting on a throne is one of a number of attractions at ‘Hola Messi’ fan zone

The statue is just one part of India’s homage to the former Barcelona and Paris St-Germain forward.

Fans can visit ‘Hola Messi’ fan zone where there is a life-sized replica Messi sat on a throne, a hall adorned with some of his trophies and a recreation of his Miami home complete with mannequins of the player and his family sat on a balcony.

“He (Lionel Messi) would be surprised to see the arrangements made for him,” Messi fan Shiladitya Banerjee said.

“He would be shocked to see how he is worshipped in Kolkata and across India. I am tearing up but these are happy tears.”

Messi, who has scored 787 goals in 963 appearances at club level, was honoured by a bronze statue in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 2016.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta recently said they are “working on” a statue at the Nou Camp.

In 2014, long-term rival Ronaldo unveiled a statue of himself at his personal museum in Funchal of the island of Madeira.

Image source: EPA

Image caption: Cristiano Ronaldo’s personal museum houses mementos and awards from his career

Forward Messi, 37, made a surprise visit to the Nou Camp last week, saying he wants to come back, and “not just to say goodbye as a player”.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner left Barcelona for Paris St-Germain in 2021.

He moved to Inter Miami in 2023 and last month signed a new contract which runs until 2028.

Laporta told Catalunya Radio: “For me to make speculation that is unrealistic, nor do I think is fair, I believe that is not appropriate.”

Laporta said Messi’s time at Barcelona did not end the way he would have liked – his contract was not extended against a backdrop of financial issues at the club.

But Laporta said he hopes to stage a match once the Nou Camp reopens after renovation.

“It would be right that he has the best tribute in the world, and it would be wonderful to have it here, in front of 105,000 fans,” he said.

Messi scored 672 goals in a record 778 games for Barcelona, winning 10 La Liga titles and the Champions League four times among other honours.

Messi’s comments come a day after he turned up unexpectedly at Spotify Camp Nou to visit the stadium as it is redeveloped, posting the images on social media with a caption saying he hoped to “return for the goodbye I never got to say as a player.”

“We miss Barcelona a lot,” Messi told Diario Sport. “With the kids, continuously, and my wife, we speak about things in Barcelona. The idea is to return there to live. We have our house there, everything, so that’s what we want.”

Messi’s Camp Nou drop-in surprised everyone on Sunday. Having arrived in Barcelona ahead of joining up with the Argentina camp in Alicante, he decided to pay an impromptu visit to the arena, sources told ESPN, accompanied by club and international teammate Rodrigo De Paul.

Security staff let him in, where he took the photographs on the pitch which would go on to receive over 22 million likes on Instagram within the first 24 hours of being posted.

It was the first time Messi had been back at Camp Nou since 2021, when he left Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain.

“I am really looking forward to getting back to the stadium when it’s finished because I moved to Paris and I never returned to Camp Nou,” he had told Sport in the interview, which was conducted in Miami before the weekend visit.

“And then Barça moved to [the Olympic Stadium in] Montjuïc. It will be strange to go back and see it because the last time I saw it was a long time ago. It will be emotional to get back there and remember everything that was.”

Barça have been playing at the Olympic Stadium since 2023 due to a €1.5 billion refurbishment that is being carried out on Camp Nou.

The club held an open training session there last week in front of 23,000 fans and hope to return before the end of the year when the council grant them a permit to host matches with around 45,000 spectators.

The stadium is unlikely to be completely finished until at least 2027, though, at which point the capacity will have increased to 105,000.

Barça president Joan Laporta has said he would love to inaugurate Camp Nou with a tribute match for Messi. And, while Messi has never strictly commented on that possibility, he does still feel he has unfinished business with the club where he remains the record goal scorer and appearance holder.

“It’s a strange feeling after leaving, because of how it all happened, because I spent my final seasons there playing without fans due to the pandemic,” he said. “After spending all my life there, I didn’t leave as I had dreamed of.

“I imagined myself spending my whole career in Europe in Barcelona and then coming here [to Miami], as I did, because that was my plan. It was what I wanted. So, my goodbye was a little strange, because of the situation.”

The Argentina star, 38, scored twice in the first half to put Miami in control, before laying off two more for Tadeo Allende after the break to seal a convincing win.

It means Javier Mascherano’s side win the best-of-three series 2-1, after a 3-2 victory in the first game was followed by a 2-1 defeat in the second.

Messi ended the series with five goals and three assists, meaning he was involved in all eight goals scored by Miami across the three matches.

“I want to congratulate Leo for the game he played,” said Miami boss Mascherano.

“He was the first one who guided us in high pressure. To see him press like that at 38 years old is crazy.

“We all know about Leo with the ball, but what happened with Leo without the ball today was impressive.”

Miami, who suffered first-round defeats in two of the past three seasons, will play FC Cincinnati in a one-off semi-final on the weekend of 22 and 23 November.

In Saturday’s other game, Minnesota United beat Seattle Sounders 7-6 on penalties after a thrilling 3-3 draw.

They will play the winner of Sunday’s game between Portland Trailblazers and San Diego FC.

The Argentine forward, who on Thursday signed a new deal until 2028, has just claimed the MLS Golden Boot with 29 goals and is highly tipped to receive the league’s Most Valuable Player award again.

Should that happen, Messi will become the first player in the 30-season history of the MLS to win it back to back.

But, having failed to defend the MLS equivalent of the league title, the 38-year-old and Inter Miami know everything hinges on lifting the MLS Cup for the first time in their history.

The franchise, part-owned by David Beckham and coached by Javier Mascherano, face the first game in a best-of-three series on Friday against Nashville SC, whose attack is led by English striker Sam Surridge.

While the league title may be considered the major prize for clubs around the world, the post-season play-offs are seen as the main piece of silverware in America.

This has been the target for Inter Miami since Messi arrived in 2023 from Paris St-Germain, but not yet achieved.

In fact, the only knockout competition they have won during his time at the club was the 2023 Leagues Cup – a new tournament that pitted teams from the MLS and Mexico’s Liga MX against each other.

They have been in seven cup competitions since then and failed to add another trophy, beyond the 2024 Supporters’ Shield for topping the overall league table.

Defender Noah Allen, 21, said: “Yeah [it’s a failure if Inter Miami don’t win MLS Cup]. We have high expectations for ourselves.

“I feel like we have the highest standard in ourselves and we want to win every trophy possible.”

Image source: AFP via Getty Images

Image caption: Lionel Messi was challenged for the MLS Golden Boot this year by English forward Sam Surridge

‘You can’t assemble The Avengers and not win the MLS Cup’

Messi, who has yet to announce if he will play at next summer’s World Cup in North America, has already had a major impact at Inter Miami on and off the field.

A higher calibre of player has been attracted to the club – renowned names such as Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba – to bring greater focus, more fans, more sales, bigger profits to the club and improve chances of success.

The club currently sell more shirts than Italian giants Juventus, and Vogue magazine features Messi’s shirts as a fashion item, while he is in line to become a co-owner of the franchise when he retires.

On the field, Messi came close in this campaign to breaking the MLS single-season record for goals and assists combined, previously held by former Arsenal forward Carlos Vela.

The Mexican managed 49 for Los Angeles FC in 2019, but Messi fell short on 45, consisting of 29 goals and 16 assists in 28 appearances (26 starts).

He goes into round one of the play-offs against Nashville having being named MLS’s Player of the Month for a third time this season, banked the Golden Boot and on the brink of another MVP award.

But, after committing his future to the club, some believe Messi and Inter need to deliver MLS Cup success.

Eighteen teams qualify for the play-offs – the top nine from the Eastern Conference and the top nine from the Western Conference – before four rounds ending in a MLS Cup final.

“You can’t assemble The Avengers and not win the MLS Cup,” two-time Golden Boot winner and former Manchester City forward Bradley Wright-Phillips told MLS Apple TV.

“I understand it’s very difficult to win it – and their time over here will still be filled with success – but as far as not winning a cup, we’re going to judge that.”

Fellow Apple TV analyst and ex-Atlanta player Dax McCarty said: “When I look back and reflect on Messi’s career, I’m not really going to think about did he win an MLS Cup or not. But his MLS legacy will absolutely be affected whether he wins an MLS Cup or not.

“If Messi is going to come to MLS and he is going to essentially get the pick of the litter of which former team-mates he wants to bring over here, let’s be honest, it’s essentially a super team – even if they are on their last legs. You have to consider that.”

Baltasar Rodriguez opened the scoring for the visitors just before half-time, and Argentina captain Messi, 38, doubled his side’s advantage in the 74th minute.

Former Liverpool and Barcelona striker Luis Suarez netted a penalty before Messi scored his 24th goal in 23 matches to seal the victory.

“We are happy because now we are officially qualified for the play-offs. That was very important for us. Now we have to continue moving forward,” said head coach Javier Mascherano.

Messi’s double took his goals haul to five in nine days. He has scored two or more goals in eight of the past 12 Inter Miami matches.

Miami, who sit third in the Eastern Conference, are five points behind leaders Philadelphia Union with two games in hand.

The team with the best regular season record win the MLS Supporters’ Shield, while the winner of the play-offs wins the MLS Cup.

Lautaro Martinez also scored as the hosts beat Venezuela 3-0 in a World Cup qualifier in Buenos Aires.

Messi, 38, was joined by his three sons and received a standing ovation from a crowd of 80,000 in moving scenes before the match.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner captained Argentina to their third World Cup triumph in 2022 and has scored a record 114 goals in 194 games for his country.

“There are so many emotions. I’ve experienced so many things on this field,” said Messi.

“It’s always a joy to play in Argentina with our people. I’m very happy. Being able to finish in this way here is what I always dreamed of.

“For many years I have had the affection of Barcelona, and my dream was to have it here too, in my country with my people. For many years a lot of things were said but, well, I’ll stay with all the good.”

Captain Messi broke the deadlock at Estadio Monumental when he latched on to a pass from Julian Alvarez before firing into the top corner.

Argentina, who top the South American qualifying group and have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, doubled their lead through Martinez’s diving header before Messi scored again shortly after.

Messi, Argentina’s most-capped player, said he has not decided if he will play at the World Cup.

“I’m trying to feel good and, above all, being honest with myself. When I feel good I enjoy it, but when I don’t, honestly, I don’t have a good time, so I prefer not to be there if I don’t feel good,” he said.

“We’ll see. I haven’t made a decision about the World Cup.

“I’ll finish the season then I’ll have pre-season, and there will be six months left. So we’ll see how I feel.”

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Messi was joined by his sons Thiago, Mateo and Ciro before kick-off

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Messi was cheered by more than 80,000 fans

Inter Miami were forced into an 11th-minute substitution in their game against Necaxa after Messi sustained a minor muscle injury in his upper right leg.

The game, however, ended 2-2 before The Herons won the game on penalty shootouts.

“Within the bad news, it’s good news,” head coach of the side, Javier Mascherano, said.

“He usually recovers very well from injuries and, above all, normally does with speed, so we will see. But clearly he is unavailable,” he added.

Inter Miami will need a win over Pumas to ensure their progress to the quarter-finals, as the top four teams from each section advance.

Miami currently sit 5th in the overall MLS standings of the Leagues Cup with 42 points.

Messi, who leads MLS with 18 goals this season, led Miami to the Leagues Cup title shortly after joining the club in 2023.

Both players missed Wednesday’s match in Austin, Texas where the MLS squad posted a 3-1 win against Mexico’s Liga MX All-Stars.

“Per league rules, any player who does not participate in the All-Star Game without prior approval from the league is ineligible to compete in their club’s next match,” MLS said in a statement on Friday.

As a result, the duo will now miss Miami’s home league fixture against FC Cincinnati on Saturday.

Inter Miami owner Jorge Mas said of Messi’s response to the ban: “He’s very upset, extremely upset, as expected.

“I’m hopeful it doesn’t have an impact long-term. Will it have an impact initially, in the players’ perception of how the league rules work? Absolutely no doubt.”

Mas said of Alba and Messi: “The reaction was exactly as expected out of two competitive players who don’t understand the decision, who don’t understand why not attending an exhibition match leads directly to a suspension.

“The rule is what it is, but they don’t understand it. I think that the punishment for the rule is frankly draconian.”

MLS commissioner Don Garber said suspending Messi was a “very difficult decision”.

He added: “I know Lionel Messi loves this league.

“I don’t think there’s a player – or anyone – who has done more for MLS than Messi. I fully understand, respect, and admire his commitment to Inter Miami, and I respect his decision.

“Unfortunately, we have a long-standing policy regarding participation in the All-Star Game and we had to enforce it.”

Argentina legend Messi, 38, has scored 18 goals in as many appearances for Javier Mascherano’s side in the MLS this season, while Alba, 36, has featured 19 times in the league.

The duo, who also played together at Barcelona from 2012 to 2021, were also part of the Miami side’s run to the quarter-finals of the Fifa Club World Cup.

Since their exit from the tournament at the hands of eventual finalists Paris St-Germain, Miami have played five matches this month with Messi scoring eight times.

Speaking to ESPN earlier in the day, Miami head coach Mascherano said the forward had “showed normal fatigue from the number of games and minutes he’s been playing”, adding that “players always have discomfort, especially when they play every three days”.

World Cup winner De Paul joins Messi at Inter

Argentina World Cup winner Rodrigo De Paul, 31, has joined Inter from Spanish club Atletico Madrid.

The midfielder spent four years at Atletico, scoring 14 goals and registering 26 assists in 187 appearances.

He will join initially on loan for the 2025 season but the deal has an option to make the transfer permanent until 2029.

He has played 78 times for Argentina and has won two Copa America titles, a Finalissima and the 2022 World Cup with his national team.

The Argentine spent nearly two decades with the Spanish club before leaving for Paris Saint-Germain in 2021.

He departed Catalonia as a bona fide legend, lifting 34 major titles, including 10 La Liga crowns to accompany four UEFA Champions League successes.

Barca had always planned to honour his achievements at some point, and vice-president Elena Fort insists it will happen upon returning to Camp Nou.

“Leo Messi’s tribute at Camp Nou must take place when the stadium is 100% finished,” she told Spanish news outlet La Vanguardia.

“It will definitely happen because he is the best player in Barca’s history.”

The Olympic Stadium has been Barcelona’s home since June 2023.

That is because Camp Nou has been undergoing a major facelift, which is unlikely to be completed until next year.

The project will see the ground’s capacity rise to 105,000, making it the largest venue in Europe.

“I think that in the summer of 2026, we will be able to say that the stadium is finished,” Fort added.

“Visually it won’t be 100% finished, the roof will need to be closed. But everything will be there.”

A tribute match at the ground where Messi delivered so much of his artistry and famous nights will be a fitting tribute to a player who scored a sensational 672 goals in 778 appearances for the club.

The 38-year-old has picked up a string of personal honours to accompany his team achievements, including being named the Ballon d’Or winner on a record eight occasions.

Since leaving Barca in 2021, Messi helped himself to two Ligue 1 titles with PSG.

Messi was powerless, however, to prevent current club Inter Miami from making an early exit from the FIFA Club World Cup on Sunday.

The Argentine was on the field for the entire 90 minutes as his former employers PSG dished out a 4-0 defeat in the last 16.

Messi and Ronaldo went head-to-head at the top of world football for over a decade, with the pair winning all but two of the Ballon d’Or trophies awarded between 2008 and 2023.

The pair may be entering the twilight of their illustrious careers, but they are still competing for some of the highest honours the sport has to offer.

Ronaldo just inspired Portugal to victory in the UEFA Nations League final, while Messi scored in Inter Miami’s FIFA Club World Cup win against Porto.

The Argentine forward believes the pair have always treated each other with respect, despite not being close off the pitch.

“I have a lot of respect and admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo and for the career he’s had and continues to have, because he’s still competing at the highest level,” Messi told DSports.

“The competition with him was on the pitch. Each of us wanted to do the best for our team.

“Obviously, as always, everything stayed on the field.

“Off the pitch, we are two normal people.

“We’re not friends, obviously, because we don’t spend time together, but we’ve always treated each other with a lot of respect.”

Messi currently has eight Ballon d’Or crowns to his name, while Ronaldo has won five.

Messi reminded world football – if we even needed a reminder – that he is still capable of delivering special moments during Inter Miami’s 2-1 win over Porto at the Fifa Club World Cup.

The 37-year-old’s free-kick was vintage, trademark, and there was nothing goalkeeper Claudio Ramos could do to save it.

This is, of course, a man who scored an eye-watering 73 goals in 60 appearances across all competitions during the 2011-12 season for Barcelona.

Standing centrally and on the edge of the D, the goal was at Messi’s mercy, but he elected for the more difficult of the two options – going both over the wall and to the goalkeeper’s side.

With that strike his 68th goal from direct free-kicks, Messi certainly has no shortage of experience and doesn’t lack in anything when it comes to confidence.

Only Juninho Pernambucano (77), who spent most of his career with Lyon and Pele (70) have scored more direct free-kicks than Messi.

“Touched by God, isn’t he? Incredible. What a player,” former Portugal defender Jose Fonte said on Dazn.

“If you get a chance to go see this guy live – you go and see him. This is what he does,” ex-Newcastle goalkeeper Shay Given added on Dazn.

“It’s nearly like a penalty for him – he is so precise. He is a genius.

“You call him maestro, magician, the words run out.”

Messi’s strike followed another stunning finish from team-mate Telasco Segovia and completed a comeback victory to put Inter Miami firmly in the running for a spot in the last 16 at the Club World Cup.

It is the first time the MLS franchise have won a game at the competition and means a draw in their final Group A game against Brazilian outfit Palmeiras, who sit top, would send both teams through.

‘Still got those amazing feet’

Just shy of two years on from swapping the shores of Europe and Paris St-Germain for the MLS, Messi maintains his position as one of the leading players in world football.

Messi took his tally to 50 goals in 61 games for Inter Miami and is the club’s all-time leading goalscorer, albeit they were only founded in 2018.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is no stranger to delivering in the Club World Cup, having scored six times in seven appearances.

During his time with Barcelona he scored five goals, including three in finals, and won the competition in 2009, 2011, 2015 – just three of the trophies collected in his illustrious career.

Messi has scored a remarkable 754 goals at club level and isn’t showing any signs of slowing.

“He’s the greatest player in the world,” said Inter Miami team-mate Fafa Picault.

He sits joint-second in the rankings for all-time goalscorers at the Club World Cup alongside Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema with six, and is just one shy of the overall leader Cristiano Ronaldo (7).

No player completed more than Messi’s tally of two dribbles at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, while he ranked fifth for most passes attempted in the game (56).

“You can have a high pass completion, but you’re not affecting the game,” ex-Scotland midfielder Don Hutchison said on Dazn.

“Lionel Messi does both, he is affecting the game, he is controlling the game. He is controlling his team-mates, he never gives the ball away.

“Lionel Messi has still got those amazing feet. At his age, 37, still dancing through.”

Messi also tallied third for touches against Porto with 70 – only Sergio Busquets (85) and Porto’s Fabio Vieira (99) enjoyed more.

‘Showed to the world we can compete’

Messi could celebrate his 38th birthday on Tuesday by booking a spot in the next phase of the Club World Cup.

With a blend of some ageing players like Messi, Luis Suarez, Busquets and Jordi Alaba – who all gave their best years to Barcelona – and some younger players from the Americas, Inter Miami have set their sights high.

Thursday’s victory over Porto marked the first time an MLS team has beaten a European side in an official competition.

“Today we showed to the world and ourselves that we can compete against any team,” manager Javier Mascherano told Dazn.

“It is great for the people of the USA to see our team compete in this kind of tournament.”

Prior to this edition of the re-formatted Club World Cup, only one MLS side had competed in the competition. Seattle Sounders, who are also involved this year, reached the second round in 2022.

The Sounders, Inter Miami and Los Angeles FC are all bidding to impress on home soil over the next few weeks.

Almost exactly 20 years separated Lionel Messi’s first goal for Barcelona and Lamine Yamal’s sensational Champions League semi-final strike on his 100th appearance for the Catalan giants last Wednesday.

Yamal, a month younger than Messi was when he lobbed the goalkeeper from Ronaldinho’s scooped assist to become La Liga’s youngest scorer in 2005, has already won a European Championship with Spain and a La Liga, Copa del Rey and Super Cup with Barcelona.

“I don’t want to compare myself with the best player in football’s history,” said the forward before his stunning individual performance against Inter, but conjecture around whether he can emulate Messi is natural.

The stats show Yamal’s trajectory since his debut aged 15 years and 290 days is going up faster than either Messi or the other superstar of his generation, Cristiano Ronaldo.

Yamal hit a century of Barcelona appearances two months shy of his 18th birthday. By the same age, Messi had scored once in nine senior games for Barca while Ronaldo had netted five goals in 19 games for Sporting.

Yamal has 22 goals and 27 assists to his name, plus four more goals in his 19 appearances for Spain. Neither Messi or Ronaldo made their international debut until they turned 18.

It took Messi, who made his debut at 16, until shortly before his 21st birthday to hit the 100-game mark in Barcelona colours, scoring 41 goals in the process.

But they were the first of an incredible 672 for the club, to complement the eight Ballon d’Ors, one World Cup, two Copas America, four Champions Leagues and a huge haul of domestic silverware.

“It is not normal,” says former Barcelona midfielder Mark van Bommel of Yamal’s rise. “That’s why everyone is talking about him. [But] to reach the number of Messi, that’s not easy. Even for a guy playing at 17.”

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Messi scored his first Barcelona goal on 1 May 2005

Yamal more of a ‘Ronaldo’ character

Messi was the small boy who arrived from Argentina aged 13 needing growth-hormone treatment, the one Gerard Pique revealed team-mates at La Masia thought was mute because he “said nothing to us for the first month”.

“Messi was always very cautious in the way he approached things – rivals, team-mates, managers – always very respectful,” explains Spanish football expert Guillem Balague.

“But he would be the one putting the mental frame to those that came new. If they were from the lower ranks, he would protect them but push them.

“When Neymar arrived, he got the message: You are Brazilian, we know you like to express yourself a lot, but there are certain things you have to do here to become an important player for Barcelona.”

Yamal grew up around 20 miles along the coast from the Nou Camp between the city of Granollers, where his mother lived, and Mataro, where his father was. He celebrates by making the number 304 with his fingers, the last three digits of his postcode in the Mataro neighbourhood of Rocafonda.

Remarkably, there are pictures of baby Yamal being held by a 20-year-old Messi during a photoshoot for Barcelona and Unicef in 2007. Seven years later, that baby was training with the club. By the age of 12, Spanish publication Marca were already comparing him to Messi.

Barcelona even broke protocol by bringing Yamal to live at La Masia – usually the rooms go to players from outside Catalonia and taxis are provided for local youngsters. Just over three years after moving in, Yamal made his debut against Real Betis.

“Lamine, they put him in La Masia. Why? Because with the coaches there was someone who could model his way,” explains former La Masia coach Pau Moral, who says Yamal “had not had an easy environment”. “Now he is in the correct way because Barca helped him a lot.”

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: A mural of Yamal in his old neighbourhood of Rocafonda

Yamal has since moved out of the Barcelona residence, buying an apartment not far from the training ground.

“Lamine Yamal couldn’t have been more different to Lionel Messi,” says Balague. “Since he was a kid he liked to joke inside the changing rooms, he liked to express himself.

“The fact his parents separated a long time ago and his mother has been the lighthouse in terms of values and behaviour, his father is almost more like a friend – that allowed a player like him to have the freedom to go beyond what is expected.

“A good example of that is Cristiano Ronaldo – he had no references and he thought he could fly and that he could be the best in the world and no one said to him ‘no, you have to go to university etc’.”

Balague describes Yamal as “completely fearless”, which came across in Yamal’s first news conference before last week’s 3-3 Champions League semi-final first-leg draw with Inter.

“I left all my fears in the park of my neighbourhood,” said Yamal, before responding to those who criticised his celebrations following Barca’s Copa del Rey triumph against Real Madrid last month. “While I keep winning, they can’t say much.”

“I have never heard anything like that,” says Balague. “It is very much like Cristiano Ronaldo behaviour – thinking ‘I am the best, so it is not a problem’. But he is still a kid in so many ways.”

Balague says when the electricity went down in Spain last week, Yamal, Gavi and Fermin Lopez took the opportunity to stroll around town with their hoodies on, before they were spotted.

“This is what he will do sometimes, not realising the impact,” says Balague. “He went recently to Rocafonda and he realises he cannot return there any more because he has become a legend. He has come out of the district. He has conquered the world.”

‘He is the best player in the world now’

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Spain fans hold up a picture of Messi bathing Yamal as a baby

The late Kobe Bryant once told a story about Ronaldinho introducing him to a player he said would be the greatest of all time. “You what? You are the best,” replied the basketball star. “No,” said Ronaldinho. “This kid here is going to be the best.”

Messi was 17, but those around him already knew they were in the presence of a star.

He joined a squad containing World Cup winners Ronaldinho, Juliano Belletti and Edmilson, stars such as Samuel Eto’o and Deco, and homegrown gems Carles Puyol, Andres Iniesta, Victor Valdes and Xavi.

The following season, Barcelona won La Liga and the Champions League – though Messi missed the final through injury – their first triumph in Europe’s elite competition since 1992.

“We won the Champions League and La Liga with Ronaldinho in his prime,” says Van Bommel. “He was on such a level that he could do everything on his own. We could just defend and let him inspire the attack, we knew we would win every game.”

It is, of course, hard to compare players across eras. Yamal has emerged at a different Barcelona, where the club’s financial situation has prompted them to turn again to their esteemed youth system.

It was after Ousmane Dembele left for Paris St-Germain and Raphinha was suspended for the second game of last season that Yamal earned his first start. Now he is the star.

“As a player and a talent, I think we are in front of the best player in the world now,” says Moral. “Nobody does what he does. It doesn’t matter if he is 17 years old. Lamine is a player who you feel when he wants, he can do something special.”

Image source: Opta

Image caption: Lamine Yamal’s 78 dribbles in this season’s Champions League have put him on the Opta records list

Yamal has scored five times in this season’s Champions League, while his 44 shots and 78 dribbles are both the most on Opta’s records for a teenager in a campaign.

The earliest such data available on Messi is from 2006-07, when he was 19 and made 21 dribbles at a rate of 4.9 per 90 minutes, compared to Yamal’s 7.2 this term. However, only three times in 14 subsequent seasons at Barcelona did Messi drop below Yamal’s current average in Europe.

Messi missed a chunk of that 2006-07 season with a metatarsal fracture but still clocked up 26 La Liga appearances, scoring 14 goals with a shot conversion rate of 23% and creating 38 chances, which led to two assists.

Yamal, two years younger, has played 31 league games this season, scored six goals, made 12 assists and created 57 chances, though he has had almost twice as many shots as Messi did with a conversion rate of 5%.

“What we are seeing from Lamine Yamal is extraordinary and the impact it has had in world football is completely out of the ordinary and unexpected,” says Balague.

“Barcelona players look at him for solutions. Certainly other players felt – especially when they went 2-0 down against Inter – that Lamine Yamal was the solution.”

La Liga comparison

Source: Opta

Will Yamal match Messi’s longevity?

Image source: Reuters

Image caption: Yamal has scored five times in the Champions League this season, the third-most goals by a teenager in a single campaign after Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappe and Raul

That is a question only time can answer.

“Certainly, we have to say he is ahead of Messi as it stands,” says Balague. “But to be 15 years right at the top, influencing every final he played, that is something that requires a lot of consistency, luck and a strong mentality for when things go wrong.

“At the moment, everything is going well and this is the biggest impact Lamine has had – he makes us look forward to watching Barcelona, look forward to seeing him. He lifts us from our seats, makes us shout and scream when he does something.”

Moral remembers watching Yamal decide youth cup finals, including his own “remontada” against Real Madrid. Now he is doing it on the grandest stage.

“Who expects a guy 16, 17 years old can play not just in first division, but in Barca… and can do something like the other day in the semi-finals of the Champions League or in the summer in the Euros?” he says.

“This guy is a kid, he is unbelievable. Honestly, I don’t know where his top is, but we are in front of one of the greatest players in the future, I am sure.

“For me, Messi is the best in history. But if everyone involved with Lamine helps – the environment, friends, family, sometimes you get an injury – if everything goes well, if he takes good decisions and works like he is, I don’t want to say better than Messi but he is on the way…”

The start of a new Barcelona dynasty?

Van Bommel says Barcelona’s 2006 Champions League success “was the beginning of the Messi era”, one built around La Masia talent with Messi at its fore. Now there is a sense Yamal could lead the latest batch of young stars into a new dynasty.

It’s what Moral and others who coached at La Masia have been waiting to see come to fruition.

“We said it would never happen again. And look, 10 years later, we are in the same situation,” he beams, recalling watching Yamal, Gavi, Alejandro Balde and Pau Cubarsi, and says there are more to come.

“When they touch the ball, you feel something special as a coach. Lamine, pfft, if one player at 12 years old has the capacity to make you crazy in training, it’s like ‘wow!’

“Barcelona is doing very good things – they invest in La Masia, in players, in talented coaches. Now it is normal to see players of 16, 17, 18 years old, which is unbelievable.

“When Xavi was in the top level, he was 26 or 27 years old. These guys are 17 or 18 years old so imagine in 10 years where they can arrive?”

Yamal is the star of this crop, a world-beater at 17.

Barcelona hope when the curtain one day comes down on his Nou Camp career, it will be with a legacy to rival Messi’s.

Barcelona have not reached the showpiece event since they last won the title in 2015, with a team spearheaded by Messi.

They face Inter Milan in the first leg of their semi-final on Wednesday, Barca’s first appearance at this stage since 2019 – again when they had Messi in their side.

The game at the Nou Camp is set to go ahead as normal despite nationwide power cuts affecting Spain on Monday and Tuesday.

Barcelona training and media conferences went ahead as normal, while a Uefa spokesperson told BBC Sport there is no impact on Wednesday’s game at present.​​​​​​​

The Barcelona attack will feature Yamal, 17, on the right flank, the position played by Messi for the Spanish side with distinction for years.

However, Yamal, speaking at a media conference on Tuesday, rejected comparisons with his fellow graduate of the club’s La Masia academy.

“I don’t compare myself to him, because I don’t compare myself to anyone – and much less with Messi,” Yamal told reporters, while also describing the Argentine as “the best player in history”.

“I don’t think the comparison makes sense, with Messi even less – I’m going to enjoy myself, and be myself.”

Yamal is already a European champion with Spain – while he will make his 100th Barcelona appearance should he feature against Inter on Wednesday.

He picked up another trophy at the weekend, setting up two goals as Barca beat Real Madrid 3-2 in the Copa del Rey final on Saturday.

Barcelona coach Hansi Flick said the euphoria from beating Madrid could help his side.

“There was big emotion at the end of the match,” said Flick. “This win against Real, it’s very important for the positive vibes, positive moments, it could push you on.”

Flick said Wojciech Szczesny would continue in goal against Inter, despite the return to fitness of first-choice Marc-Andre ter Stegen after a long injury lay-off.

Cheuko gained widespread recognition after social media videos showed him closely watching the crowd to stop potential pitch invaders from harming the eight-times Ballon d’Or winner.

“They don’t allow me to be on the field anymore,” the bodyguard was quoted as saying by Spanish media.

“I was in Europe for seven years, working for Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and only six people invaded the pitch. I came to the USA and in just 20 months 16 people have already done so. There’s a huge problem here, let me help Messi.”

Major League Soccer said on Tuesday that its protocols regarding team security guards had not changed and multiple sides had designated team security guards that are stationed near team benches on the field.

Inter Miami have been contacted for comment.

The 37-year-old returned to Miami’s starting line-up for their Major League Soccer win over Atlanta United but reportedly picked up an injury during Sunday’s game.

Inter later confirmed the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has a “low-grade” injury to his adductor muscle.

Messi was rested for three Miami games before coming off the bench and scoring in last week’s Concacaf Champions Cup win at Jamaican side Cavalier.

Argentina can secure qualification for next year’s World Cup in this round of games as the holders visit Uruguay and host Brazil.

They lead South America’s 10-team qualifying group by five points from Uruguay with six games remaining, with Brazil seven points adrift in fifth.

The top six qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup while the seventh-placed team goes into a play-off.

After 12 rounds, Messi is the top scorer with six goals, taking his overall tally to 112 from 191 international appearances.

Argentina will also be without injured Roma striker Paulo Dybala and River Plate full-back Gonzalo Montiel.

Brazil will be without Messi’s former Barcelona team-mate Neymar as a thigh injury has denied the Santos forward, 33, a return to the national team.

Ronaldo and Messi’s personal rivalry has dominated the sport for more than two decades, with both possessing legions of fans ready to argue their case as the sport’s greatest player.

But Al Nassr striker Ronaldo, 39, was happy to put forward his case on his own in an interview with El Chiringuito on Monday.

“Who’s the best goalscorer in history? It’s about numbers. Full stop,” he said (via ESPN).

“Who’s the player in history who’s scored the most goals with their head, their left foot, penalties, free kicks?

“I was looking the other day, and not being left-footed, I’m in the top 10 goalscorers with their left foot in history. And with my head, and with my right foot, and penalties. All of them.”

He added: “I’m talking about numbers. I think I’m the most complete player to have existed. In my opinion, I think it’s me.

“I do everything well in football: with my head, free kicks, left foot. I’m fast, I’m strong.

“One thing is taste – if you like Messi, Pele, Maradona, I understand that, and I respect that – but saying Ronaldo isn’t complete…I’m the most complete. I haven’t seen anybody better than me, and I say it from the heart.”

Ronaldo has one of the most sparkling football CVs ever assembled, winning domestic and continental titles for Sporting CP, Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus and Al Nassr as well as winning the European Championship with Portugal.

His haul of five Ballon d’Or trophies is second only to Messi with eight, but both players have since departed top-flight European football, with the Argentine great now at Inter Miami in Major League Soccer and Ronaldo plying his trade in Saudi Arabia.

Asked about the quality of the Saudi Pro League, Ronaldo had a strong response.

“People don’t know, they give their opinion, they talk too much,” he said.

“It’s a shame, because it’s a different reality when people talk about Arabia and the USA.

“[Is Major League Soccer worse?] Obviously, but as it’s Arabia, it’s disrespected …people don’t know what they’re talking about. With those [players] who are here, you have to respect it.”

Ronaldo turns 40 on Wednesday, but he has no plans to retire as he continues to score regularly, with 23 goals in 25 games in all competitions this season for his club.

“I’m so competitive that sometimes I forget what I’ve achieved,” said Ronaldo.

“It gives me motivation to do more and do better every year … I think that’s the difference with others. Somebody else in my position would have left football 10 years ago. I’m different, full stop.”

Messi’s move to Paris on a free transfer in August 2021 completed a sparkling frontline with Mbappe and Neymar, but the much-celebrated trio struggled to gel together.

Neymar, now on the books with Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal, described in an interview with Brazil great Romario how the dynamic changed in the dressing room following Messi’s arrival from Barcelona.

When asked by Romario if Mbappe is “annoying,” Neymar said: “No, he is not. I have my things with him, we had a little fight, but he was fundamental for us when he arrived.

“I used to call him golden boy. I always played with him; I said he was going to be one of the best. I always helped, talked to him, he came to my place, we had dinner together.

“We had some good years of partnership, but after Messi came he was a little jealous.

“He didn’t want to split me with anyone. And then there were some fights, a change in behaviour.”

Assembling one of the most expensive and talented forward lines ever seen did not lead to the desired success for PSG, who failed to claim their maiden UEFA Champions League title.

Mbappe departed PSG last summer to complete a long-touted move to Real Madrid, while Messi is now in Major League Soccer with Inter Miami.

“It is good to have egos, but you have to know that you don’t play alone,” Neymar said.

“There needs to be another guy by your side. [Big] egos were almost everywhere, it can’t work. If nobody runs and nobody helps, it is impossible to win anything.”

Neymar, 32, has only featured twice for Al Hilal in an injury-plagued 2024/25 season.

The Brazilian’s contract expires at the end of the season and he has been linked with a return to Brazil, which he did not rule out, and a move to MLS, with Chicago Fire among the clubs linked.

Neymar won five Ligue 1 titles, three Coupe de France and two Coupe de la Ligue during a six-year spell in Paris, but a runners-up finish in 2019/20 was as close as he got to Champions League glory with the French side.

He joined Al Hilal in the summer of 2023, but an ACL injury in October that year ended his season and he is yet to return to full fitness, having suffered further injuries since recovering.

The former Barcelona and Paris-St Germain forward helped Inter Miami to a record regular season points tally, before his side were beaten in the first round of the MLS Cup play-offs in November.

The 37-year-old had a league-leading 36 goal contributions, scoring 20 goals and creating 16 assists.

The award comes despite injuries limiting Messi to just 19 regular season and two play-off appearances for Miami this year.

The league’s MVP is chosen by players, club technical staff and journalists. Messi received 38.43% of votes, beating Colombus Crew’s Cucho Hernandez who got 33.7%.

The award, officially known as the Landon Donovan MLS MVP, has previously been won by former United States midfielder Donavon, Republic of Ireland’s Robbie Keane and Spain’s David Villa.

FIFPro’s Men’s and Women’s all-star teams are voted for by players, showing that the 37-year-old Messi and 39-year-old Ronaldo are still respected by their peers enough to make the 26-player shortlist.

Messi is playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, while Ronaldo stars for Al-Nassr in the Saudi Pro League.

It is the Argentinian’s 18th nomination, extending his record as the most-nominated player in the award’s history, while Ronaldo is close behind on 16.

Premier League players dominate the men’s shortlist with 11 members based in England, but there is no place for Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah.

Seven of the Premier League nominees come from Manchester City following their Premier League title victory: Ederson, Ruben Dias, Kyle Walker, Rodri, Kevin De Bruyne, Phil Foden and Erling Haaland.

Only Real Madrid have more players shortlisted with eight, as both Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Junior make the list.

Joining City’s seven from the Premier League are Cole Palmer, who is shortlisted for the first time since moving to Chelsea from Etihad Stadium in August 2023.

Virgil van Dijk appears, as does Arsenal’s William Saliba and Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez.

Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane and Madrid’s Jude Bellingham are the other England internationals on the list.

The women’s team sees England stars also make a strong showing with nine selections, including four defenders in Lucy Bronze, Millie Bright, Alex Greenwood and Jess Carter.

Goalkeeper Mary Earps, midfielders Ella Toone and Keira Walsh, and forwards Lauren James and Alessia Russo join as the other Lionesses on the list.

Two-time women’s Ballon d’Or winner Aitana Bonmati, representing Spain and Barcelona, is also nominated.

🚨 These are the 26 nominees for the 2024 FIFPRO Men's #World11, as voted by players.

🇧🇷 Ederson
🇦🇷 @EmiMartinezz1
🇩🇪 @Manuel_Neuer

🇪🇸 @DaniCarvajal92
🇵🇹 @RubenDias
🇳🇱 @VirgilvDijk
🇳🇱 @JeremieFrimpong
🇩🇪 @ToniRuediger
🇫🇷 William Saliba
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 @KyleWalker2

🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 @BellinghamJude
🇧🇪… pic.twitter.com/mCgLn4dx4n

— FIFPRO (@FIFPRO) December 2, 2024

FIFPro World 11 Men’s nominees

Goalkeepers: Ederson (Manchester City, Brazil), Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa, Argentina), Manuel Neuer (Bayern Munich, Germany)

Defenders: Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid, Spain), Ruben Dias (Manchester City, Portugal), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool, Netherlands), Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen, Netherlands), Antonio Rudiger (Real Madrid, Germany), William Saliba (Arsenal, France), Kyle Walker (Manchester City, England)

Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid, England), Kevin De Bruyne (Manchester City, Belgium), Phil Foden (Manchester City, England), Toni Kroos (Real Madrid, Germany), Luka Modric (Real Madrid, Croatia), Jamal Musiala (Bayern Munich, Germany), Rodri (Manchester City, Spain), Federico Valverde (Real Madrid, Uruguay)

Forwards: Erling Haaland (Manchester City, Norway), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich, England), Kylian Mbappe (Paris Saint-Germain/Real Madrid, France), Lionel Messi (Inter Miami, Argentina), Cole Palmer (Manchester City/Chelsea, England), Cristiano Ronaldo (Al-Nassr, Portugal), Vinicius Junior (Real Madrid, Brazil), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain)

⭐️ Introducing the 26 nominees for the 2024 FIFPRO Women's #World11, as voted by players.

🇦🇺 @MaccaArnold1
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Mary Earps
🇨🇱 @TianeEndler

🇫🇷 @BachaSelma
🇪🇸 @OnaBatlle
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 @MDawg1Bright
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 @LucyBronze
🇪🇸 @7OlgaCarmona
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 @_JessCarter
🇺🇸 @Naomi_Girma
🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 @AlexGreenwood

🇪🇸… pic.twitter.com/vgFHj5VhLv

— FIFPRO (@FIFPRO) December 2, 2024

FIFPro World 11 Women’s nominees

Goalkeepers: Mackenzie Arnold (West Ham United/Portland Thorns, Australia), Mary Earps (Manchester United/Paris Saint-Germain, England), Christiane Endler (Olympique Lyonnais, Chile)

Defenders: Selma Bacha (Olympique Lyonnais, France), Ona Batlle (Barcelona, Spain), Millie Bright (Chelsea, England), Lucy Bronze (Barcelona/Chelsea, England), Olga Carmona (Real Madrid, Spain), Jess Carter (Chelsea/Gotham, England), Naomi Girma (San Diego Wave, USA), Alex Greenwood (Manchester City, England)

Midfielders: Aitana Bonmati (Barcelona, Spain), Debinha (Kansas City Current, Brazil), Ingrid Engen (Barcelona, Norway), Lindsey Horan (Olympique Lyonnais, USA), Alexia Putellas (Barcelona, Spain), Ella Toone (Manchester United, England), Keira Walsh (Barcelona, England)

Forwards: Athenea (Real Madrid, Spain), Barbra Banda (Shanghai Shengli/Orlando Pride, Zambia), Linda Caicedo (Real Madrid, Colombia), Tabitha Chawinga (Paris Saint-Germain/Olympique Lyonnais, Malawi), Lauren James (Chelsea, England), Marta (Orlando Pride, Brazil), Salma Paralluelo (Barcelona, Spain), Alessia Russo (Arsenal, England)

Well, that appears to be the path that Thiago Messi, the son of eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel, is taking.

Thiago, aged 12, turned out for Inter Miami’s under-13 team in the Newell’s Cup in Rosario, Argentina, on Monday, wearing his father’s iconic number 10 shirt.

It is the 10th edition of the youth tournament, which sees eight clubs from North and South America compete across five days.

Father Lionel was born in Rosario, where Newell’s Old Boys are based, and spent five years in the academy of the Argentine outfit prior to joining Barcelona’s famous La Masia youth academy as a 13-year-old.

The 37-year-old, who spent most of his career at Barcelona before moving to Paris St-Germain and then on to Inter Miami, has achieved incredible things in the sport – winning 13 league titles and the Champions League on four occasions.

He also captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022 and Copa America success in 2021 and 2024.

Although Messi Sr was not in attendance at the Jorge B Griffa Sports Complex, a banner showing him kissing the World Cup was watching over Thiago.

Thiago’s mother, Antonela Roccuzzo, and grandparents Jorge and Celia Messi, watched from the stands as Inter Miami lost 1-0 to host club Newell’s Old Boys.

Benjamin Suarez, the son of Inter Miami striker Luis Suarez, also featured alongside Thiago.

Inter Miami are back in action on Tuesday against Uruguayan club Penarol 91.

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Celia Messi (left) and Antonela Roccuzzo (right) watched from the stands

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Benjamin Suarez is the son of Uruguay and former Barcelona striker Luis Suarez

Atlanta United triumphed 3-2 in the best-of-three decider in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, after both sides had won one game each.

Miami finished the regular season with a record 74 points from 34 games in the Eastern Conference to win the Supporters’ Shield.

Miami took the lead at Chase Stadium when Matias Rojas scored from a rebound after former Aston Villa keeper Brad Guzan had denied Argentina forward Messi.

Two goals in two minutes from Jamal Thiare put Atlanta in front and, despite Messi equalising with a header, Bartosz Slisz scored the winner as Miami appealed for play to be stopped with defender Tomas Aviles lying on the pitch injured.

Last month Miami, who are co-owned by David Beckham, were named as one of the 32 sides in next year’s expanded Fifa Club World Cup.

“They are now officially one of the 32 best clubs in the world, already after a few years since their existence,” said Fifa president Gianni Infantino.

“And now they can start writing their story also on the global stage.”

In December Miami signed Uruguay striker Luiz Suarez, reuniting him with former Barcelona team-mates Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba.

Atlanta scraped into the play-offs by finishing ninth in the Eastern Conference, then beat Montreal on penalties in a wildcard game to set up a meeting with Miami.

Atlanta will play Orlando City, and New York City face New York Red Bulls, in the semi-finals, which are decided by one game rather than three.

The winners will meet in the Eastern Conference final, and the winners of that will play the Western Conference play-off champions in the MLS Cup final on 7 December.

“This season has had good and bad things,” said Miami manager Gerardo Martino.

“If you think about the expectations we had for this play-offs, obviously we came up a little short.

“The players are sad, as they should be when there are so many expectations and the team can’t fulfil them.

“In this final part of the year we got used to achieving the objectives but we couldn’t achieve the most important one.”

Miami defender Alba said the MLS Cup format is “a bit unfair”.

“It’s been done for many years but I think it should be the champion of one conference against the champion of the other to make it as fair as possible,” he said.

The victory in their final game of the 34-match regular season took Miami to 74 points and meant they beat the previous record of 73 points set by the Revolution in 2021.

Miami, who had already secured the MLS Supporters’ Shield, which is given to the club with the best regular-season record, went 2-0 behind against the Revolution following goals from Luca Langoni and Dylan Borrero.

A Luis Suarez double levelled the match before the introduction of Messi after 58 minutes helped Miami kick on to claim victory.

The 37-year-old Argentina forward, who scored a hat-trick in midweek for his country against Bolivia, played a part in Benjamin Cremaschi putting Miami 3-2 in front.

Messi scored his first goal of the match when he powered in a left-foot shot from just outside the area after combining with former Uruguay international Suarez.

He then side-footed in a second before adding his third – and 20th of the MLS season – following a Suarez cross.

Miami, who have been named as the latest addition to the Fifa Club World Cup in 2025, will now go into the MLS play-offs as they try to secure the MLS Cup.

The 37-year-old Inter Miami forward, who also set up two goals at Monumental Stadium in Buenos Aires, moved level with Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo for the most hat-tricks in men’s international football.

Argentina are three points clear of Colombia at the top of the South American qualifying group for the 2026 World Cup, despite losing to Colombia in September and drawing with Venezuela last week.

“It’s really nice to come here, to feel the affection of the people. It moves me how they shout my name,” Messi said.

“This drives me – enjoying being happy where I am. Despite my age, when I’m here, I feel like a kid because I’m comfortable with this team. As long as I feel good and can keep performing the way I want, I’ll keep enjoying it.”

Messi, making only his second appearance for Argentina since suffering an injury at the Copa America in July, capitalised on a defensive error to put them ahead after 19 minutes.

He set up Lautaro Martinez and then Julian Alvarez before substitute Thiago Almada made it 4-0.

Messi struck twice in two minutes late on, beating two defenders to fire in his second and completing his hat-trick by finding the bottom corner.

Messi has scored 112 goals in 189 games for Argentina – second only to Ronaldo, who has 133, in men’s internationals.

Raphinha scored twice as struggling Brazil made it back-to-back victories with a 4-0 win over Peru in Brasilia.

Brazil, record five-time World Cup winners, had lost four of their past five qualifiers before defeating Chile on Thursday.

Dorival Junior’s side are fourth in the table – six points behind Argentina – after 10 games.

The top six teams qualify automatically for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Raphinha converted a penalty in each half before late goals from Fulham’s Andreas Pereira and Luiz Henrique.

“We needed this. It was really important winning both games to get back on track,” Raphinha told TV Globo.

In-form Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran scored his seventh goal of the season in all competitions as Colombia beat Chile 4-0.

Davinson Sanchez, Liverpool’s Luis Diaz and Bournemouth’s Luis Sinisterra also scored in Barranquilla.