Lionel Messi (via Screengrab)Lionel Messi has once again become the biggest talking point at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The Argentina captain has been in outstanding form and continues to break long-standing records. At 39 years old, he remains the driving force behind the defending champions as they prepare for the knockout stage.Argentina will face Cape Verde in the Round of 32 on Friday in Miami. Messi is expected to start the match and lead his team in their bid to defend the World Cup title. His performances during the group stage have strengthened Argentina’s hopes of becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups.Lionel Messi FIFA World Cup 2026 performances so farLionel Messi has delivered another memorable World Cup campaign. He has scored six goals in the group stage and is tied with France star Kylian Mbappe in the race for the Golden Boot.The Argentine captain opened the tournament with a hat-trick against Algeria. He then scored twice against Austria before coming off the bench to net a stunning late free-kick against Jordan.His goals have helped Argentina win all three group matches. The defending champions are on a 10-match winning streak across the Copa America and FIFA World Cup.Messi has also reached several historic milestones. He became the all-time leading men’s World Cup goalscorer with 19 career goals. He also set a new record by scoring in seven consecutive World Cup matches. In addition, he became one of only three players to appear in six different FIFA World Cups.Lionel Messi’s FIFA World Cup 2026 StatsCategoryStatsMatches Played3Goals6Assists0Golden Boot PositionJoint 1stCareer World Cup Goals19FIFA World Cup Appearances6 tournamentsWhy Argentina vs. Cape Verde FIFA World Cup 2026 R32 match matters so muchThe Round of 32 match carries huge importance for both teams.Argentina are aiming to defend their World Cup crown and become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive FIFA World Cup titles. With Messi leading the attack, they remain one of the strongest contenders in the tournament.For Messi, the match is another chance to extend his incredible list of records. Every goal and every appearance adds to one of the greatest international careers in football history.Cape Verde, meanwhile, have already exceeded expectations by reaching the knockout stage. They have emerged as one of the biggest surprise teams of the tournament. A victory over Argentina would rank among the greatest upsets in FIFA World Cup history.The match also has special significance because it will be played in Miami, the city where Messi now plays club football for Inter Miami. Local fans are expected to turn out in huge numbers to watch the Argentine legend.As the knockout rounds begin, all eyes will once again be on Messi. Argentina will hope their captain can continue his brilliant form and move one step closer to another World Cup triumph.