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Lionel Messi prepares for historic sixth World Cup appearance

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 6:22 PM

Last updated Jun 14, 2026

Lionel Messi prepares for historic sixth World Cup appearance

Summary

Lionel Messi is set to play in his sixth World Cup, joining Argentina's squad for the tournament in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The veteran forward will reach 200 caps if he appears against Algeria in Kansas City. Messi, who indicated the 2022 World Cup could be his last, has been in good form with 13 goals in 16 MLS matches for Inter Miami this year. He captained Argentina to victory in the 2024 Copa America and remains central to Argentina's ambition to retain their title. Teammate Julian Alvarez emphasized the significance of Messi's participation, considering his status in football history.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Messi poised to become the first player with six World Cup appearances
•He has scored 13 goals in 16 MLS matches for Inter Miami this season
•Argentina seeks to retain their World Cup title from 2022
•He will achieve his 200th cap if he plays against Algeria on June 16
•Messi captained Argentina to victory in the 2024 Copa America

Latest Updates

6:22 PMYahoo Sports — World Cup history beckons for ageless Messi

What they're saying

"
Lionel Messi could have signed off from World Cup football on the ultimate high in 2022 but he is back and poised to become the first man to play in six tournaments."I love playing football, and I'm going to do it until I can't anymore," he said recently.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Inter Miami Sporting Kansas City Barcelona MLS Soccer