What happened: Lionel Messi has scored seven goals across four starts at the 2026 World Cup. The haul places him among the tournament's leading marksmen with the competition still in its later stages.

Why it matters: The run cements Messi's place among the most prolific finishers in World Cup history, extending a scoring record built over multiple tournaments. His output has been the driving force behind his side's deep push this summer.

What to watch: The next test is whether Messi keeps the pace as the knockout stakes rise.