Messi rewrites history: Argentine legend set to break unique record in World Cup final

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has once again etched his name into the annals of world football. The 39-year-old's appearance in the 2026 World Cup final against Spain marks his third career final at the tournament.

Previously, Messi featured in the World Cup finals of 2014 and 2022, and now he takes to the pitch once more in the decisive clash of the 2026 tournament. With this feat, the Argentine becomes only the second player in history to play in three World Cup finals.

Until today, this remarkable achievement belonged solely to Brazil's legendary defender Cafu, who played in the World Cup finals of 1994, 1998, and 2002.

But Messi is set to raise the bar even higher. The Argentine becomes the first footballer ever to start in three World Cup finals, cementing his place as one of the greatest players in football history.