Messi Extends World Cup Scoring Record with Goal Against Cape Verde

Lionel Messi was on target once again, making Friday’s match against Cape Verde the eighth consecutive World Cup game in which Argentina’s captain has scored at least once, extending his own record.

His 29th-minute strike was the 20th World Cup goal of his career, further extending his all-time record and putting him two goals clear of France’s Kylian Mbappé.

Messi has now scored seven goals at this year’s World Cup, one more than Mbappé in the race for the Golden Boot. He has also netted 12 goals across his last eight World Cup matches.

“For me, it means a lot to be his friend,” said Rodrigo De Paul, who plays alongside Messi for both Argentina and Inter Miami. “Friendship is one of the most important things in life, and I feel fortunate to share these moments with him.”

Messi nearly opened the scoring in the 15th minute when his left-footed effort rolled narrowly wide of the right post. Three minutes later, he earned a free kick from about 25 yards after being brought down, but Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha gathered it comfortably.

Argentina’s pressure eventually paid off as Messi gave his side a 1-0 lead. Timing his run perfectly to beat the offside trap, he controlled a pass inside the box before calmly lifting the ball over Vozinha from close range.