Lionel Messi achieved another milestone in Argentina’s 1-0 win against Peru on Tuesday, November 19, during the FIFA World Cup qualifiers at La Bombonera. The Argentine star assisted Lautaro Martinez in the 55th minute, securing a crucial victory for La Albiceleste.
This assist marked Messi’s 58th in international football, putting him level with U.S. soccer legend Landon Donovan as the player with the most assists for a national team. Alongside his assists, Messi has an impressive record of 112 goals in 191 games for Argentina.
Messi is second only to Cristiano Ronaldo in international goals. The Portuguese forward has netted 135 goals and provided 37 assists in 217 appearances for his country.
Argentina had a tough time breaking through Peru’s defense in the first half. Their best chance came in the 21st minute when Julian Alvarez hit the post, leaving the score level at halftime.
After the break, Messi, under heavy marking, managed to create a moment of brilliance. Ten minutes into the second half, he delivered a precise cross to Lautaro Martinez, who struck a half-volley into the net. The goal not only gave Argentina the lead but also brought Martinez’s international tally to 32 goals, tying him with Diego Maradona as Argentina’s fifth-highest scorer.
This win brings Argentina closer to securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. They remain at the top of the South American qualifying table with 25 points from 12 matches.
Lionel Messi’s World Cup Journey
Lionel Messi has scored 13 goals and provided eight assists in 26 World Cup matches across five tournaments. His efforts played a pivotal role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph, where he scored twice in the final against France. Messi also reached the final in 2014 but lost to Germany.
The 37-year-old has won the Golden Ball twice, in 2014 and 2022. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, Messi is preparing for a historic sixth tournament appearance.
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