Lionel Messi by the numbers: Trophies, heartache and the greatest World Cup player in history

Lionel Messi, Argentina's captain, has concluded his remarkable 21-year international career with a final appearance at the 2026 World Cup. Messi led Argentina to the final, scoring eight goals, but they lost to Spain in the championship match. The 39-year-old cited his father's recent passing and the loss to Spain as reasons for his retirement from the national team, expressing deep pain and regret over his decision.

Despite the heartache, Messi acknowledged that it was the right time to move on, stating his undying love for the national team. His 207 caps and 125 goals make him Argentina's all-time leading scorer and appearance maker. Messi's career stands out for its longevity and consistency, with an average of 0.60 goals per game. He is one of only three players to have represented their country in six consecutive World Cups, and his 34 appearances are surpassed only by Kylian Mbappe's 34.

Messi's 21 World Cup goals, particularly seven in knockout matches including a final, highlight his exceptional skill at the global stage.