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Lionel Messi plays in sixth World Cup as Argentina faces Algeria

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 10:20 PM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Lionel Messi plays in sixth World Cup as Argentina faces Algeria
Summary

Lionel Messi plays his first match of the 2026 World Cup on June 16, as Argentina faces Algeria in Group J action at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri. At 38 years and 357 days old, Messi is attempting to lead Argentina to back-to-back World Cup titles after their victory in 2022. He has participated in 26 World Cup matches, contributing 13 goals and 8 assists. Messi is three goals away from breaking the record for most goals in World Cup history. Argentina's subsequent matches in the group stage are against Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27.

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By the Numbers
  • •Messi plays first match against Algeria on June 16.
  • •This is Messi's sixth World Cup appearance.
  • •He holds 13 goals and 8 assists in World Cup matches.
  • •Argentina plays Austria on June 22 and Jordan on June 27.
  • •Messi will turn 39 during the group stage.
Latest Updates
  • 10:20 PMYahoo Sports — How old is Lionel Messi? Soccer superstar makes sixth World Cup appearance
What they're saying
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Lionel Messi is playing in his sixth World Cup. Here's how old the soccer icon is as Argentina attempts to defend its title.

Related Teams & Leagues
FC DallasInter MiamiSporting Kansas CityBarcelonaParis Saint-GermainMLSSoccer

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