Lionel Messi sets World Cup record with sixth tournament appearance
Lionel Messi will become the first male footballer to appear in six World Cups when he leads Argentina against Algeria in Kansas City.
The Inter Miami forward will beat his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo to the historic milestone by a matter of hours.
Messi had previously hinted at international retirement following his nation’s triumphant 2022 campaign in Qatar.
However, the 38-year-old insists his motivation to compete on the global stage remains entirely undiminished.
Chasing Klose’s goalscoring record
The veteran attacker will also earn his 200th international cap during the opening Group J fixture.
He approaches the tournament standing just three goals short of Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup record of 16 strikes.
The Argentine captain will celebrate his 39th birthday next week as he looks to defend the trophy won so dramatically in Doha.
‘Excited as ever’ to compete
The former Barcelona star acknowledged that his presence at another finals seemed unlikely four years ago.
“There had been doubts because of what I said at the previous World Cup.”
“That I thought it would be difficult for me to play in another one, because so many years had to pass.”
“But I kept feeling good and taking things day by day.”
“I had the opportunity to play, get into rhythm, get minutes on the pitch and gradually feel better.”
“I’m happy, enjoying every moment and now I’m also as excited as ever.”
