Argentina: Lionel Messi, a touch of Diego Maradona 1986

19.07.26 AET World Cup

Spain

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Argentina

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Lionel Messi is walking on water. Once again, La Pulga is the driving force behind Argentina's stunning run at the 2026 World Cup, drawing striking parallels with another Albiceleste legend, Diego Armando Maradona.

With 8 goals and 4 assists in 7 matches at this American World Cup, Lionel Messi is dreaming of writing one final chapter in his international career as he faces Spain this Sunday in the tournament final. The goal: to retain the title he lifted four years ago in Qatar.

The Inter Miami forward has been Argentina's number one threat, firing 34 shots and creating 25 scoring chances in just 7 games. He and Maradona are the only players in the past 60 years to have both taken the most shots and created the most chances at a single World Cup.

"El Pibe de Oro" took 29 shots at goal during the 1986 World Cup in Mexico and created 30 scoring chances. His campaign culminated in a final victory against West Germany (3-2) at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City.

At 39, Lionel Messi dreams of delivering a fourth World Cup title to Argentina and further cementing his legendary status with the Albiceleste.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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