Lionel Messi has etched his name further into the annals of football history, surpassing Neymar to become the all-time leading assist provider in international football. The Argentinian maestro achieved the record during a friendly match against Puerto Rico at Chase Stadium, his current home ground with Inter Miami. This latest accomplishment adds to Messi's already impressive resume, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players of all time.
The record-breaking assist was Messi's 59th for his country, edging him past Neymar's previous mark of 58. Former U.S. national team midfielder Landon Donovan also had 58 assists. The 2022 World Cup champion continues to showcase his playmaking ability, adding another remarkable achievement to his career. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, anticipation builds around Messi's potential performance, with many hoping he can conclude his international career with another significant accomplishment.
Messi's journey to the top of the international assist chart is a testament to his consistent excellence and longevity. He has now provided more assists than any other player in the history of international football. This feat highlights not only his individual brilliance but also his ability to elevate the play of his teammates.
Throughout his illustrious career, Messi has consistently demonstrated his exceptional vision, passing range, and ability to create scoring opportunities for others. These qualities have made him a nightmare for defenders and a valuable asset for both club and country. His assist record reflects his unselfishness and dedication to team success.
In addition to this latest record, Messi holds numerous other distinctions in the world of football. He has played in five World Cups, a feat he shares with only five other players. In those appearances, Messi has played a record 26 matches, surpassing Lothar Matthaus' previous record of 25. He also holds the record for the most minutes played in World Cup history, with 2,314.
Furthermore, Messi is Argentina's all-time leading scorer in the World Cup with 13 goals. He is also the only player to have registered an assist in five World Cups. His closest rivals in that statistic are Pele, Grzegorz Lato, Diego Maradona, and David Beckham, who each recorded assists in three editions.
At the club level, Messi has also achieved unparalleled success. He has won a record eight Ballon d'Or awards, more than any other player in history. He has also won six European Golden Shoes and has been named the world's best player by FIFA eight times. Messi has secured 45 team trophies, making him the most decorated player in professional football history.
His records at club level include most goals in a calendar year (91), most goals for a single club (672 for Barcelona), and most goals in La Liga (474). With over 880 senior career goals and 390 assists for club and country, Messi has contributed to over 1,270 goals, the highest total in football history.
As Messi continues his career with Inter Miami, fans around the world eagerly anticipate what further achievements he will accomplish. His legacy as one of the greatest, if not the greatest, football player of all time is already secure.
