Lionel Messi has added yet another landmark to a glittering career. In Argentina's very first fixture at FIFA World Cup 2026, the 38 year old reached a milestone that only a handful of players have ever touched. As he stepped onto the pitch on Tuesday (Wednesday in Indian time) for the Group J opener, Messi completed his 200th international appearance for Argentina.
A New Chapter in Kansas City
Three time FIFA World Cup winners Argentina took the field against Algeria at the Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, and it was here that Messi touched the 200 cap mark. He made his Argentina debut back in 2005, and two decades later he is still pulling on the national jersey with the same hunger. He also holds the record as Argentina's all time leading scorer in men's football, having found the net 117 times for his country so far.
Only the Third Name in the 200 Club
By taking part in this match against Algeria, Messi became just the third player in football history to play 200 international games. The first to reach the figure was Kuwait's Bader Al-Mutawa, who turned out 202 times for his nation between 4 September 2003 and 14 June 2022.
The record for the most international appearances still belongs to Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portugal great has played 228 matches to date and scored 143 goals along the way. That places Messi third on the list, behind Ronaldo and Al-Mutawa.
The Only Player Across Six World Cups
The same outing handed Messi another unique distinction. He has become the first footballer in the world to play in six editions of the FIFA World Cup. His World Cup journey began in 2006 against Serbia and Montenegro, and ever since he has featured in at least one match at every tournament, something no other player has managed to do.
The Man Who Made Argentina World Champions
Messi, who has won millions of hearts with his magical play, also fulfilled his dream of lifting the World Cup for his country last time out. In the final he got the better of Mbappe's formidable France to claim the trophy. The contest was locked at 3-3 at full time, but Argentina held their nerve in the penalty shootout to win 4-2 and seal the title.
