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Lionel Messi becomes first footballer to play in six World Cups
🇵🇾 Paraguay /Sports

Lionel Messi becomes first footballer to play in six World Cups

From ABC Color · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Ongoing story
  • Lionel Messi became the first footballer to play in six World Cups when Argentina debuted against Algeria.
  • The milestone was reached in Kansas City, where Messi also played his 200th match for Argentina.
  • Messi's record could be matched by Cristiano Ronaldo, who is also set to play in his sixth World Cup.

Lionel Messi has etched his name further into football history by becoming the first player to participate in six World Cups. The Argentine captain achieved this landmark during his team's opening match against Algeria in Kansas City.

The star of Inter Miami defends the crown of Qatar 2022 in his last great adventure.

— ABC ColorThe article describes Messi's participation in his sixth World Cup as his final major tournament.

The Inter Miami star's historic appearance also marked his 200th game for the Albiceleste. Fans in the stadium, largely composed of Argentine supporters, gave their idol a standing ovation from the warm-up. Messi, now 38, is embarking on what is likely his final World Cup campaign, aiming to defend the title Argentina won in Qatar in 2022.

The historic milestone was achieved with the initial whistle of Argentina's debut in the North American World Cup against Algeria.

— ABC ColorThe article details when and where Messi reached the six-World Cup milestone.

This record-breaking feat places Messi in an elite category. However, Cristiano Ronaldo could equal this achievement within 24 hours if he plays in Portugal's opening match. The article also notes other players who have participated in multiple World Cups, including Mexico's Guillermo Ochoa, who is also attending his sixth tournament, and former players like Antonio Carbajal, Andrés Guardado, Rafael Márquez, and Lothar Matthäus, who have played in five editions.

The current star of Inter Miami, 38 years old, could hold this record alone for less than 24 hours, as Cristiano Ronaldo can take to the field in his sixth World Cup in Portugal's debut on Wednesday.

— ABC ColorThe article notes that Cristiano Ronaldo is also on the verge of reaching the same record.

Messi's World Cup journey has been a rollercoaster of emotions, culminating in the 2022 victory, which capped a career filled with numerous club and international titles. The triumph in Qatar helped to heal past disappointments, particularly the extra-time loss in the 2014 final against Germany. Argentina's quest for a second consecutive title has now officially begun with Messi leading the charge.

The night in Kansas City was not only worth the debut and the World Cup attendance record. Winner of eight Golden Balls, Messi also reached 200 games played with the Argentine jersey this Tuesday, of which he is the top scorer with 117 goals.

— ABC ColorThe article highlights Messi's achievements in the match, including his 200th appearance and goal tally for Argentina.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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