Messi creates history, becomes first-ever player to play in six FIFA World Cups

Argentina captain Lionel Messi created history by becoming the first footballer to play in six men's FIFA World Cups after taking field in his team's FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Algeria. The 38-year-old earlier represented Argentina in the 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022 editions. He had led Argentina to the FIFA World Cup 2022 title in Qatar.