Goal efficiency
How clinical and direct the player was in front of goal — volume, accuracy, and conversion.
CONCACAF Champions League · Attacker · #10 · Argentina · 38 yrs
L. Messi is an attacker. L. Messi is a Argentine international, 38 years old, attacker. L. Messi wears shirt number 10. L. Messi was born in Rosario, Argentina on 1987-06-24. L. Messi is 170 cm tall and weighs 67 kg. L. Messi's Sportra profile tracks season statistics across CONCACAF Champions League, Copa America, FIFA Club World Cup, Friendlies, and other leagues. L. Messi's page brings together career clubs, trophies, injury history, multi-competition stats, and related news headlines. On Sportra you can explore L. Messi season statistics, transfer history, trophies, injury updates, and related news across every competition tracked in the profile.
Attacker · #10
| Season | Team |
|---|---|
| 2026 |  Argentina ARG |
| 2026 |  Inter Miami |
| 2025 | Argentina ARG |
| 2025 | Inter Miami |
| 2024 | Argentina ARG |
| Date | Type | From | To |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-07-15 | Free |  Paris Saint Germain PSG | Inter Miami |
| 2021-08-10 | Free |  Barcelona BAR | Paris Saint Germain PSG |
Season intelligence
Profile as Midfielder: finisher, creator, high usage. Archetype: Advanced playmaker. Season rating 7.7.
Scaled 0–99 from season output — map to fantasy, comparisons, or scouting cards.
Per-90 rates, efficiency ratios, and Sportra indices from season totals.
How clinical and direct the player was in front of goal — volume, accuracy, and conversion.
Playmaking output: assists, key passes, and custom chance-creation signals.
Isolation threat and progressive carrying — volume plus success rate.
How often they draw fouls and stay out of trouble with cards.
Tackles, duels, and off-ball defensive contribution.
Shot-stopping, goals conceded, and penalty saves.
Minutes, availability, and how central they were to the team.
Every tracked category for this league and season, grouped by Sportra.
L. Messi is an attacker. L. Messi is a Argentine international, 38 years old, attacker. L. Messi wears shirt number 10. L. Messi was born in Rosario, Argentina on 1987-06-24. L. Messi is 170 cm tall and weighs 67 kg. L. Messi's Sportra profile tracks season statistics across CONCACAF Champions League, Copa America, FIFA Club World Cup, Friendlies, and other leagues. L. Messi's page brings together career clubs, trophies, injury history, multi-competition stats, and related news headlines. On Sportra you can explore L. Messi season statistics, transfer history, trophies, injury updates, and related news across every competition tracked in the profile.
Attacker · #10
| Season | Team |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Argentina ARG |
| 2026 | Inter Miami |
| 2025 | Argentina ARG |
| 2025 | Inter Miami |
| 2024 | Argentina ARG |
| Date | Type | From | To |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-07-15 | Free | Paris Saint Germain PSG | Inter Miami |
| 2021-08-10 | Free | Barcelona BAR | Paris Saint Germain PSG |
Season intelligence
Profile as Midfielder: finisher, creator, high usage. Archetype: Advanced playmaker. Season rating 7.7.
Scaled 0–99 from season output — map to fantasy, comparisons, or scouting cards.
Per-90 rates, efficiency ratios, and Sportra indices from season totals.
How clinical and direct the player was in front of goal — volume, accuracy, and conversion.
Playmaking output: assists, key passes, and custom chance-creation signals.
Isolation threat and progressive carrying — volume plus success rate.
How often they draw fouls and stay out of trouble with cards.
Tackles, duels, and off-ball defensive contribution.
Shot-stopping, goals conceded, and penalty saves.
Minutes, availability, and how central they were to the team.
Every tracked category for this league and season, grouped by Sportra.
Lionel Messi's return with Inter Miami remains uncertain, and it looks like it won't come against Columbus Crew in the next MLS matchup. Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos has cast fresh doubt over whether Lionel Messi will be fit to face the Columbus Crew this Saturday, just days after the Argentine captain rejoined the squad following Argentina’s run to the 2026 World Cup final. Messi returned to training in Fort Lauderdale on Wednesday, July 29, but Hoyos stopped short of confirming his captain would be included for the visit of Columbus, leaving the door open without making any promises. Speaking to reporters after the training session, Hoyos was asked directly about Messi’s chances of featuring. “We’re talking along those lines. He arrived not long ago, so we haven’t really had the space yet to talk properly, but we’re very happy that he’s back,” the coach said. Rodrigo De Paul finds himself in an identical spot, having rejoined the squad at the same time as his compatriot, meaning his availability for Inter Miami’s next MLS clash is also in doubt. 🇦🇷 Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul are Both Back!The two Argentines have both returned from their post-World Cup breaks to resume practicing with Inter Miami.Guillermo Hoyos did not provide any specifics as to their availability for Saturday vs Columbus. #InterMiamiCF #Messi pic.twitter.com/UOBecSJSv3— Franco Panizo (@FrancoPanizo) July 31, 2026 Notably, Inter Miami haven’t needed either of them to keep winning. The club beat Chicago Fire 3-2, with Luis Suárez scoring a brace, and followed it up with a 1-0 win at CF Montreal with the Uruguayan finding the net again, stretching their run to six straight victories. Messi’s potential return to the pitch with Inter Miami If Saturday comes too soon, the more realistic target for Messi’s first appearance since the World Cup final is Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup opener against Atletico San Luis on August 5. That date would also line up with games against Monterrey on August 8 and Leon on August 12 to close the group stage, giving Hoyos a clearer runway to manage Messi’s reintegration than a compressed turnaround against Columbus would allow.
Online petitions are calling for Lionel Messi to have his 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, following the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. Lionel Messi‘s Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, won back on June 3, 2026, has become an unexpected source of controversy in Spain following the 2026 World Cup final. According to reports from outlets like La Razón, more than 30 separate campaigns have popped up online calling for the foundation to reconsider or revoke the honor before its official ceremony in October. It’s worth being clear from the outset: none of this is official. These are online petitions, not a formal review process, and as of now, the Fundación Princesa de Asturias haven’t issued any statement responding to the campaigns. Still, the scale is notable — one of the more prominent petitions has already surpassed 1,500 signatures in just over a week, and the sheer number of separate campaigns circulating suggests this isn’t a fringe complaint. The 2026 World Cup final involved The grievances cited in these petitions center on specific moments from the final and its aftermath: Messi appearing to push for a red card against Marc Cucurella and showing little concern after accidentally striking Mikel Merino in the head with the ball. Messi ile Cucurella arasında geçen diyalog: 🗣️Cucurella: “Sen iyi misin Leo, özür dilerim.”🗣️Messi: “Hey, ağzını kapattı.”🗣️Cucurella: “Hadi ama Leo, bu iş ciddiye binmesin.”pic.twitter.com/7p4sKhzeN0— EPL Günlükleri (@EPL_Gunlukleri) July 21, 2026 There is also broader frustration tied to the flag controversy that arose during Argentina’s semifinal win over England involving the Falklands Islands. Petitioners argue these episodes run counter to the values of respect and fair play the award is meant to recognize. Messi joins a short list of honorees Messi’s award makes him the only individual footballer to win the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports on his own, joining Iker Casillas and Xavi Hernandez as the only other footballers to be recognized, though the two Spaniards received the honor jointly in 2012 rather than individually. Football has also been recognized at the national team level twice before: Spain’s national side won the award in 2010 following their first World Cup title, and Brazil’s national team took the honor in 2002 after securing a record fifth World Cup crown.
Inter Miami face CF Montreal in Matchday 18 action of the MLS, where many are wondering if Lionel Messi will be available for the Herons in Canada. Lionel Messi will sit out Inter Miami’s trip to face CF Montreal in Matchday 18 of the 2026 MLS regular season, as the Argentine captain continues his mandatory recovery period following Argentina’s run to the 2026 World Cup final. Messi has yet to return to training with the Herons since getting back from the tournament. His absence isn’t tied to injury or suspension. Current FIFA-FIFPRO regulations grant players a minimum 21-day rest window after major international tournaments, and Messi is using his in full. Rodrigo De Paul is in the same boat and will also miss the trip to Quebec. It’s a notable blow for Inter Miami’s attack, given Messi has racked up 12 goals and seven assists in just 14 MLS appearances this season. Inter Miami arrive at Stade Saputo on a five-match winning streak and sit near the top of the Eastern Conference table, with Luis Suarez carrying the attacking load in Messi’s absence — the 39-year-old scored a brace in Miami’s 3-2 win over Chicago Fire last time out. Luis Suarez celebrates a goal for Inter Miami. (Getty Images) CF Montreal projected lineup CF Montreal could line up in a 4-3-3, with Matthew Longstaff as the creative engine in midfield. Up top, the trio of Hennadiy Synchuk, Prince Owusu and Noah Streit will be tasked with breaking down the Inter Miami backline. CF Montreal’s projected starting XI: Breza; Bugaj, Neal, Vera, Petrasso; Herbers, Longstaff, Loturi; Synchuk, Owusu, Streit. Inter Miami projected lineup With Messi and De Paul unavailable, Hoyos is expected to turn to a 4-3-3 built around Luis Suarez, who’s been in red-hot form with eight goals in his last 12 MLS appearances, including a brace in the win over Chicago Fire. Inter Miami’s projected starting XI: St. Clair; Mura, Fray, Micael, Reguilon; Ruiz, Bright, Segovia; Silvetti, Suarez, Berterame. When could Messi be back? As for when Messi comes back, the picture is still taking shape. He’s expected to rejoin the group in late July or early August, but given the 21-day rest allowance, his likelier reappearance could come in the Leagues Cup. Inter Miami open group play against Atletico de San Luis on August 5, face Monterrey on August 8, and close against Leon on August 12 — a date that would line up with the end of his mandated rest period.
Amidst the glory and shattered expectations, one mythical scoring milestone remains stubbornly out of reach. The curtain has fallen on the 2026 World Cup, leaving behind a newly crowned champion, immortal performances, and a thrilling new chapter in the eternal clash between Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe. Yet, amidst the glory and shattered expectations, one mythical scoring milestone remains stubbornly out of reach. Standing like an ancient fortress, this decades-old record continues to defy the absolute greatest attacking titans the beautiful game has ever produced. The final between Spain and Argentina closed the curtain on one of the highest-quality World Cups in recent memory. While the spotlight naturally shifted toward the champion, the Golden Boot race, and Messi’s likely farewell on the World Cup stage, another historic achievement quietly survived yet another challenge. The answer lies with Just Fontaine, the legendary France striker whose astonishing haul of 13 goals in a single World Cup continues to stand alone nearly seven decades later. Even after an expanded 48-team tournament and more matches than ever before, nobody managed to erase the mark he established in Sweden in 1958. Fontaine’s achievement remains one of soccer’s most remarkable individual feats. He scored against Paraguay (three), Yugoslavia (two), Scotland (one), Northern Ireland (two), Brazil (one), and West Germany (four), averaging more than two goals per game across only six appearances. Ex-French international footballer Just Fontaine (C) receives the Adidas Platinum Boot award Messi and Mbappe came close, but history stood firm The 2026 tournament appeared to offer the perfect opportunity for Fontaine’s record to finally fall. Messi, Mbappe, Harry Kane, Erling Haaland, and Jude Bellingham all produced prolific campaigns, raising hopes that someone would finally rewrite soccer history. Instead, the record remained untouched after the final whistle. Mbappe finished as the tournament’s Golden Boot winner with 10 goals and four assists, while Messi concluded the World Cup with eight goals, leaving Fontaine’s incredible total safely intact. RankPlayerNational TeamGoalsAssists1.Kylian MbappeFrance1042.Lionel MessiArgentina843.Jude BellinghamEngland714.Erling HaalandNorway705.Ousmane DembeleFrance626.Harry KaneEngland61 One reason Fontaine’s accomplishment continues to amaze historians is the incredible story behind it. The French striker wasn’t even expected to start the tournament and famously ended up wearing borrowed boots after damaging his own pair during training. “I was devastated,” Fontaine once recalled in an interview with FIFA after tearing one of his boots before France’s opening match. “I thought my chance could be gone.” Fortunately for France, teammate Stephane Bruey wore the same shoe size and generously loaned Fontaine his boots. The rest quickly became soccer folklore as the striker exploded for 13 goals in just six matches, averaging a goal every 42 minutes. Record built in only one World Cup Perhaps the most astonishing detail is that Fontaine only played in one World Cup during his entire career. Unlike players such as Miroslav Klose, Ronaldo Nazario, Messi, or Mbappe, he never had multiple tournaments to build his numbers. Klose eventually became the men’s World Cup’s all-time leading scorer with 16 career goals, but those strikes came across four separate tournaments. Fontaine reached 13 goals during a single edition, making the feat even more remarkable. France striker Just Fontaine His scoring spree helped France finish third at the 1958 World Cup after victories over Paraguay, Yugoslavia, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and West Germany. The only team capable of stopping France was Pele’s Brazil in the semifinals. Why modern soccer makes the challenge even harder Many believed expanding the tournament from 32 to 48 teams would finally create the perfect conditions for someone to surpass Fontaine. In reality, the opposite may h
Rodri spoke about the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, addressing how they'll try to stop Lionel Messi on the field. Spain and Argentina clash at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, July 19, to decide who becomes champion of the 2026 World Cup. The Europeans know they’ll face a tough test in Lionel Messi, who is chasing his second title after leading his country to glory in Qatar 2022. Amid that backdrop, Spain captain Rodri broke down exactly how they plan to deal with Messi ahead of the World Cup final, laying out a two-part approach to containing the tournament’s top scorer. “First, keep him away from the box. And second, when we inevitably have to defend, be closer to him, be more aggressive. Maybe not sit back as much,” the Manchester City midfielder said in an interview with Diario As. Rodri explained how that plan fits into Spain‘s broader defensive identity, while acknowledging the unpredictability Messi brings to the occasion. “We’re a team that presses forward to force our opponents to play backward, and I think that’s the key to Sunday’s match. But with a player like Leo, who’s often unpredictable, we’ll have to be very alert,” he added. Lionel Messi during Argentina’s game vs England. (Getty Images) Rodri praises Messi’s greatness and longevity It will be the third and likely final World Cup final Messi plays in, and this one carries a special significance — he’ll be facing several players who grew up idolizing him during his time at Barcelona, like Pau Cubarsi, Pedri, Gavi, and even Lamine Yamal. Rodri didn’t hold back when discussing Messi’s greatness and longevity heading into the final. “Messi speaks for himself. But beyond the individual accolades, his career speaks for him. So many years at the top level. To reach — I don’t know how old he is now (39) — in that kind of form and still be the best player at the World Cup is incredible,” he explained. Beyond the individual praise, the Spain captain also acknowledged what Messi represents for Argentina as a team, and the challenge that poses heading into Sunday’s final. “For them, he’s more than a player. He’s a reference point, their leader. But we’ll have to control Argentina in every phase of the game,” the Spaniard captain concluded.
Following two thrilling semifinal matches, Argentina and Spain will face off in the 2026 World Cup final. Ahead of this match, Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal share an exclusive dribbling record in the current edition of the tournament. After establishing as the best national teams at the 2026 World Cup, Argentina and Spain will face off in the final. While Lionel Scaloni’s team arrives in outstanding attacking form, Luis de la Fuente’s side has excelled collectively and boasts one of the strongest defenses. This will mark the historic first meeting between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal, who share an exclusive dribbling record at the current edition of the World Cup. According to OptaJoe, via X (formerly Twitter), Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal are the only two players to complete 20 or more dribbles at the 2026 World Cup. The Argentine legend has completed 25 dribbles, while the Spanish youngster has completed 22. While they are close in this statistic, the 39-year-old’s performance is particularly remarkable, as he is no longer expected to be in his physical prime. Despite Lionel Messi already being a veteran player, he remains the cornerstone of Argentina. With the freedom to roam, he has been one of the standout players of the tournament. In addition, he serves as the team’s creative focal point. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, his clash with Lamine Yamal is expected to become one of the most memorable matchups in World Cup history. At just 19 years old, Lamine Yamal is already one of the best players in the world. However, he has not been at his best physically. Despite these issues, he remains Spain‘s key difference-maker and bringing out the best in his teammates. He now faces the greatest opportunity to elevate his legacy: Winning the 2026 World Cup by playing a decisive role against Lionel Messi’s Argentina. The tournament’s two best dribblers are looking to take center stage. Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain celebrates scoring a goal. Messi has edge over Lamine before World Cup final Despite being the oldest player in the 2026 World Cup final, Lionel Messi arrives with a clear advantage for the clash against Spain. As the tournament’s top scorer with 8 goals, alongside Kylian Mbappé, he is competing to be MVP. He has also elevated his teammates, as he is the tournament’s second-highest assist provider. This stands in contrast to Lamine Yamal and his current form. Lamine Yamal came into the tournament after enjoying the best season of his career, but he has not shone at the 2026 World Cup. In the seven matches he has played, he has scored just one goal and has not provided a single assist. While his collective impact is undeniable, he could once again fall short in terms of end product, something that could reflect poorly on him. Therefore, he needs to step up and silence his critics.
Neymar spoke about his desire to return to the Brazil national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and mentioned Lionel Messi. With 44 days to go until the start of the FIFA World Cup, Neymar is still dreaming of being there. The forward sent a clear message about his desire to return to the Brazil national team to compete at North America 2026, also bringing Lionel Messi into the conversation. “Ney, are you thinking about the World Cup?” a reporter asked the forward during the post-match press conference following Santos’ 1-1 draw against San Lorenzo in Buenos Aires on Tuesday. “Of course. Every Brazilian player thinks about that. I hope I can be there,” Neymar replied. Moments later, another journalist asked whether a potential reunion with Lionel Messi was also part of his plans. “Yes, of course,” Ney answered, going a step further by linking that possibility to a potential meeting at the World Cup: “Also, a final between Brazil and Argentina would be spectacular.” For now, the Santos forward knows that to achieve his goal of returning to the Brazil national team, he must first deliver convincing performances at club level to catch coach Carlo Ancelotti’s attention. Neymar and Messi together during a World Cup qualifier between Brazil and Argentina in 2016. In that regard, the past few weeks have been positive. Neymar played the full 90 minutes against San Lorenzo in the Copa Sudamericana and has now done so in five consecutive matches across all competitions. He only missed last Saturday’s clash against Bahia in the Brazilian Serie A, but that was not due to physical issues—it was a decision by coach Cuca to prioritize this week’s match in Buenos Aires. An Argentina-Brazil World Cup final would be unprecedented Despite being two of the strongest national teams in the world, with eight titles between them, Argentina and Brazil have never met in a World Cup final. In fact, they have not faced each other at any stage of the tournament in 36 years. The last time the two South American giants met at a World Cup was in the Round of 16 at Italy 1990, when Argentina defeated Brazil 1-0 thanks to a second-half goal from Claudio Caniggia. That result helped them advance all the way to the final, where they lost 1-0 to West Germany. Overall, Argentina and Brazil have faced each other four times in the FIFA tournament. Two of those matches were Brazilian victories (2-1 in 1974 and 3-1 in 1982), along with a 0-0 draw in 1978 and Argentina’s win in 1990. Messi vs Neymar at international level The friendship between Lionel Messi and Neymar, forged during their years together at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, has not prevented them from facing off multiple times at international level. Messi holds the edge, with three wins and two losses. The most significant meeting between the two came in the 2021 Copa America final, when Argentina defeated Brazil 1-0 thanks to a goal from Angel Di Maria, ending a 28-year trophy drought. Messi also recorded wins in 2010 and 2012, while Neymar came out on top in a 2014 friendly and a 2016 World Cup qualifier.
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Lionel Messi's return with Inter Miami remains uncertain, and it looks like it won't come against Columbus Crew in the next MLS matchup. Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos has cast fresh doubt over whether Lionel Messi will be fit to face the Columbus Crew this Saturday, just days after the Argentine captain rejoined the squad following Argentina’s run to the 2026 World Cup final. Messi returned to training in Fort Lauderdale on Wednesday, July 29, but Hoyos stopped short of confirming his captain would be included for the visit of Columbus, leaving the door open without making any promises. Speaking to reporters after the training session, Hoyos was asked directly about Messi’s chances of featuring. “We’re talking along those lines. He arrived not long ago, so we haven’t really had the space yet to talk properly, but we’re very happy that he’s back,” the coach said. Rodrigo De Paul finds himself in an identical spot, having rejoined the squad at the same time as his compatriot, meaning his availability for Inter Miami’s next MLS clash is also in doubt. 🇦🇷 Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul are Both Back!The two Argentines have both returned from their post-World Cup breaks to resume practicing with Inter Miami.Guillermo Hoyos did not provide any specifics as to their availability for Saturday vs Columbus. #InterMiamiCF #Messi pic.twitter.com/UOBecSJSv3— Franco Panizo (@FrancoPanizo) July 31, 2026 Notably, Inter Miami haven’t needed either of them to keep winning. The club beat Chicago Fire 3-2, with Luis Suárez scoring a brace, and followed it up with a 1-0 win at CF Montreal with the Uruguayan finding the net again, stretching their run to six straight victories. Messi’s potential return to the pitch with Inter Miami If Saturday comes too soon, the more realistic target for Messi’s first appearance since the World Cup final is Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup opener against Atletico San Luis on August 5. That date would also line up with games against Monterrey on August 8 and Leon on August 12 to close the group stage, giving Hoyos a clearer runway to manage Messi’s reintegration than a compressed turnaround against Columbus would allow.
Online petitions are calling for Lionel Messi to have his 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, following the 2026 World Cup final between Argentina and Spain. Lionel Messi‘s Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, won back on June 3, 2026, has become an unexpected source of controversy in Spain following the 2026 World Cup final. According to reports from outlets like La Razón, more than 30 separate campaigns have popped up online calling for the foundation to reconsider or revoke the honor before its official ceremony in October. It’s worth being clear from the outset: none of this is official. These are online petitions, not a formal review process, and as of now, the Fundación Princesa de Asturias haven’t issued any statement responding to the campaigns. Still, the scale is notable — one of the more prominent petitions has already surpassed 1,500 signatures in just over a week, and the sheer number of separate campaigns circulating suggests this isn’t a fringe complaint. The 2026 World Cup final involved The grievances cited in these petitions center on specific moments from the final and its aftermath: Messi appearing to push for a red card against Marc Cucurella and showing little concern after accidentally striking Mikel Merino in the head with the ball. Messi ile Cucurella arasında geçen diyalog: 🗣️Cucurella: “Sen iyi misin Leo, özür dilerim.”🗣️Messi: “Hey, ağzını kapattı.”🗣️Cucurella: “Hadi ama Leo, bu iş ciddiye binmesin.”pic.twitter.com/7p4sKhzeN0— EPL Günlükleri (@EPL_Gunlukleri) July 21, 2026 There is also broader frustration tied to the flag controversy that arose during Argentina’s semifinal win over England involving the Falklands Islands. Petitioners argue these episodes run counter to the values of respect and fair play the award is meant to recognize. Messi joins a short list of honorees Messi’s award makes him the only individual footballer to win the Princess of Asturias Award for Sports on his own, joining Iker Casillas and Xavi Hernandez as the only other footballers to be recognized, though the two Spaniards received the honor jointly in 2012 rather than individually. Football has also been recognized at the national team level twice before: Spain’s national side won the award in 2010 following their first World Cup title, and Brazil’s national team took the honor in 2002 after securing a record fifth World Cup crown.
Inter Miami face CF Montreal in Matchday 18 action of the MLS, where many are wondering if Lionel Messi will be available for the Herons in Canada. Lionel Messi will sit out Inter Miami’s trip to face CF Montreal in Matchday 18 of the 2026 MLS regular season, as the Argentine captain continues his mandatory recovery period following Argentina’s run to the 2026 World Cup final. Messi has yet to return to training with the Herons since getting back from the tournament. His absence isn’t tied to injury or suspension. Current FIFA-FIFPRO regulations grant players a minimum 21-day rest window after major international tournaments, and Messi is using his in full. Rodrigo De Paul is in the same boat and will also miss the trip to Quebec. It’s a notable blow for Inter Miami’s attack, given Messi has racked up 12 goals and seven assists in just 14 MLS appearances this season. Inter Miami arrive at Stade Saputo on a five-match winning streak and sit near the top of the Eastern Conference table, with Luis Suarez carrying the attacking load in Messi’s absence — the 39-year-old scored a brace in Miami’s 3-2 win over Chicago Fire last time out. Luis Suarez celebrates a goal for Inter Miami. (Getty Images) CF Montreal projected lineup CF Montreal could line up in a 4-3-3, with Matthew Longstaff as the creative engine in midfield. Up top, the trio of Hennadiy Synchuk, Prince Owusu and Noah Streit will be tasked with breaking down the Inter Miami backline. CF Montreal’s projected starting XI: Breza; Bugaj, Neal, Vera, Petrasso; Herbers, Longstaff, Loturi; Synchuk, Owusu, Streit. Inter Miami projected lineup With Messi and De Paul unavailable, Hoyos is expected to turn to a 4-3-3 built around Luis Suarez, who’s been in red-hot form with eight goals in his last 12 MLS appearances, including a brace in the win over Chicago Fire. Inter Miami’s projected starting XI: St. Clair; Mura, Fray, Micael, Reguilon; Ruiz, Bright, Segovia; Silvetti, Suarez, Berterame. When could Messi be back? As for when Messi comes back, the picture is still taking shape. He’s expected to rejoin the group in late July or early August, but given the 21-day rest allowance, his likelier reappearance could come in the Leagues Cup. Inter Miami open group play against Atletico de San Luis on August 5, face Monterrey on August 8, and close against Leon on August 12 — a date that would line up with the end of his mandated rest period.
Amidst the glory and shattered expectations, one mythical scoring milestone remains stubbornly out of reach. The curtain has fallen on the 2026 World Cup, leaving behind a newly crowned champion, immortal performances, and a thrilling new chapter in the eternal clash between Lionel Messi and Kylian Mbappe. Yet, amidst the glory and shattered expectations, one mythical scoring milestone remains stubbornly out of reach. Standing like an ancient fortress, this decades-old record continues to defy the absolute greatest attacking titans the beautiful game has ever produced. The final between Spain and Argentina closed the curtain on one of the highest-quality World Cups in recent memory. While the spotlight naturally shifted toward the champion, the Golden Boot race, and Messi’s likely farewell on the World Cup stage, another historic achievement quietly survived yet another challenge. The answer lies with Just Fontaine, the legendary France striker whose astonishing haul of 13 goals in a single World Cup continues to stand alone nearly seven decades later. Even after an expanded 48-team tournament and more matches than ever before, nobody managed to erase the mark he established in Sweden in 1958. Fontaine’s achievement remains one of soccer’s most remarkable individual feats. He scored against Paraguay (three), Yugoslavia (two), Scotland (one), Northern Ireland (two), Brazil (one), and West Germany (four), averaging more than two goals per game across only six appearances. Ex-French international footballer Just Fontaine (C) receives the Adidas Platinum Boot award Messi and Mbappe came close, but history stood firm The 2026 tournament appeared to offer the perfect opportunity for Fontaine’s record to finally fall. Messi, Mbappe, Harry Kane, Erling Haaland, and Jude Bellingham all produced prolific campaigns, raising hopes that someone would finally rewrite soccer history. Instead, the record remained untouched after the final whistle. Mbappe finished as the tournament’s Golden Boot winner with 10 goals and four assists, while Messi concluded the World Cup with eight goals, leaving Fontaine’s incredible total safely intact. RankPlayerNational TeamGoalsAssists1.Kylian MbappeFrance1042.Lionel MessiArgentina843.Jude BellinghamEngland714.Erling HaalandNorway705.Ousmane DembeleFrance626.Harry KaneEngland61 One reason Fontaine’s accomplishment continues to amaze historians is the incredible story behind it. The French striker wasn’t even expected to start the tournament and famously ended up wearing borrowed boots after damaging his own pair during training. “I was devastated,” Fontaine once recalled in an interview with FIFA after tearing one of his boots before France’s opening match. “I thought my chance could be gone.” Fortunately for France, teammate Stephane Bruey wore the same shoe size and generously loaned Fontaine his boots. The rest quickly became soccer folklore as the striker exploded for 13 goals in just six matches, averaging a goal every 42 minutes. Record built in only one World Cup Perhaps the most astonishing detail is that Fontaine only played in one World Cup during his entire career. Unlike players such as Miroslav Klose, Ronaldo Nazario, Messi, or Mbappe, he never had multiple tournaments to build his numbers. Klose eventually became the men’s World Cup’s all-time leading scorer with 16 career goals, but those strikes came across four separate tournaments. Fontaine reached 13 goals during a single edition, making the feat even more remarkable. France striker Just Fontaine His scoring spree helped France finish third at the 1958 World Cup after victories over Paraguay, Yugoslavia, Scotland, Northern Ireland, and West Germany. The only team capable of stopping France was Pele’s Brazil in the semifinals. Why modern soccer makes the challenge even harder Many believed expanding the tournament from 32 to 48 teams would finally create the perfect conditions for someone to surpass Fontaine. In reality, the opposite may h
Rodri spoke about the 2026 World Cup final between Spain and Argentina, addressing how they'll try to stop Lionel Messi on the field. Spain and Argentina clash at New York New Jersey Stadium on Sunday, July 19, to decide who becomes champion of the 2026 World Cup. The Europeans know they’ll face a tough test in Lionel Messi, who is chasing his second title after leading his country to glory in Qatar 2022. Amid that backdrop, Spain captain Rodri broke down exactly how they plan to deal with Messi ahead of the World Cup final, laying out a two-part approach to containing the tournament’s top scorer. “First, keep him away from the box. And second, when we inevitably have to defend, be closer to him, be more aggressive. Maybe not sit back as much,” the Manchester City midfielder said in an interview with Diario As. Rodri explained how that plan fits into Spain‘s broader defensive identity, while acknowledging the unpredictability Messi brings to the occasion. “We’re a team that presses forward to force our opponents to play backward, and I think that’s the key to Sunday’s match. But with a player like Leo, who’s often unpredictable, we’ll have to be very alert,” he added. Lionel Messi during Argentina’s game vs England. (Getty Images) Rodri praises Messi’s greatness and longevity It will be the third and likely final World Cup final Messi plays in, and this one carries a special significance — he’ll be facing several players who grew up idolizing him during his time at Barcelona, like Pau Cubarsi, Pedri, Gavi, and even Lamine Yamal. Rodri didn’t hold back when discussing Messi’s greatness and longevity heading into the final. “Messi speaks for himself. But beyond the individual accolades, his career speaks for him. So many years at the top level. To reach — I don’t know how old he is now (39) — in that kind of form and still be the best player at the World Cup is incredible,” he explained. Beyond the individual praise, the Spain captain also acknowledged what Messi represents for Argentina as a team, and the challenge that poses heading into Sunday’s final. “For them, he’s more than a player. He’s a reference point, their leader. But we’ll have to control Argentina in every phase of the game,” the Spaniard captain concluded.
Following two thrilling semifinal matches, Argentina and Spain will face off in the 2026 World Cup final. Ahead of this match, Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal share an exclusive dribbling record in the current edition of the tournament. After establishing as the best national teams at the 2026 World Cup, Argentina and Spain will face off in the final. While Lionel Scaloni’s team arrives in outstanding attacking form, Luis de la Fuente’s side has excelled collectively and boasts one of the strongest defenses. This will mark the historic first meeting between Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal, who share an exclusive dribbling record at the current edition of the World Cup. According to OptaJoe, via X (formerly Twitter), Lionel Messi and Lamine Yamal are the only two players to complete 20 or more dribbles at the 2026 World Cup. The Argentine legend has completed 25 dribbles, while the Spanish youngster has completed 22. While they are close in this statistic, the 39-year-old’s performance is particularly remarkable, as he is no longer expected to be in his physical prime. Despite Lionel Messi already being a veteran player, he remains the cornerstone of Argentina. With the freedom to roam, he has been one of the standout players of the tournament. In addition, he serves as the team’s creative focal point. Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, his clash with Lamine Yamal is expected to become one of the most memorable matchups in World Cup history. At just 19 years old, Lamine Yamal is already one of the best players in the world. However, he has not been at his best physically. Despite these issues, he remains Spain‘s key difference-maker and bringing out the best in his teammates. He now faces the greatest opportunity to elevate his legacy: Winning the 2026 World Cup by playing a decisive role against Lionel Messi’s Argentina. The tournament’s two best dribblers are looking to take center stage. Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain celebrates scoring a goal. Messi has edge over Lamine before World Cup final Despite being the oldest player in the 2026 World Cup final, Lionel Messi arrives with a clear advantage for the clash against Spain. As the tournament’s top scorer with 8 goals, alongside Kylian Mbappé, he is competing to be MVP. He has also elevated his teammates, as he is the tournament’s second-highest assist provider. This stands in contrast to Lamine Yamal and his current form. Lamine Yamal came into the tournament after enjoying the best season of his career, but he has not shone at the 2026 World Cup. In the seven matches he has played, he has scored just one goal and has not provided a single assist. While his collective impact is undeniable, he could once again fall short in terms of end product, something that could reflect poorly on him. Therefore, he needs to step up and silence his critics.
Neymar spoke about his desire to return to the Brazil national team for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and mentioned Lionel Messi. With 44 days to go until the start of the FIFA World Cup, Neymar is still dreaming of being there. The forward sent a clear message about his desire to return to the Brazil national team to compete at North America 2026, also bringing Lionel Messi into the conversation. “Ney, are you thinking about the World Cup?” a reporter asked the forward during the post-match press conference following Santos’ 1-1 draw against San Lorenzo in Buenos Aires on Tuesday. “Of course. Every Brazilian player thinks about that. I hope I can be there,” Neymar replied. Moments later, another journalist asked whether a potential reunion with Lionel Messi was also part of his plans. “Yes, of course,” Ney answered, going a step further by linking that possibility to a potential meeting at the World Cup: “Also, a final between Brazil and Argentina would be spectacular.” For now, the Santos forward knows that to achieve his goal of returning to the Brazil national team, he must first deliver convincing performances at club level to catch coach Carlo Ancelotti’s attention. Neymar and Messi together during a World Cup qualifier between Brazil and Argentina in 2016. In that regard, the past few weeks have been positive. Neymar played the full 90 minutes against San Lorenzo in the Copa Sudamericana and has now done so in five consecutive matches across all competitions. He only missed last Saturday’s clash against Bahia in the Brazilian Serie A, but that was not due to physical issues—it was a decision by coach Cuca to prioritize this week’s match in Buenos Aires. An Argentina-Brazil World Cup final would be unprecedented Despite being two of the strongest national teams in the world, with eight titles between them, Argentina and Brazil have never met in a World Cup final. In fact, they have not faced each other at any stage of the tournament in 36 years. The last time the two South American giants met at a World Cup was in the Round of 16 at Italy 1990, when Argentina defeated Brazil 1-0 thanks to a second-half goal from Claudio Caniggia. That result helped them advance all the way to the final, where they lost 1-0 to West Germany. Overall, Argentina and Brazil have faced each other four times in the FIFA tournament. Two of those matches were Brazilian victories (2-1 in 1974 and 3-1 in 1982), along with a 0-0 draw in 1978 and Argentina’s win in 1990. Messi vs Neymar at international level The friendship between Lionel Messi and Neymar, forged during their years together at Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain, has not prevented them from facing off multiple times at international level. Messi holds the edge, with three wins and two losses. The most significant meeting between the two came in the 2021 Copa America final, when Argentina defeated Brazil 1-0 thanks to a goal from Angel Di Maria, ending a 28-year trophy drought. Messi also recorded wins in 2010 and 2012, while Neymar came out on top in a 2014 friendly and a 2016 World Cup qualifier.
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