Messi creates history, becomes first captain to lead a nation in three WC finals
Lionel Messi has become the first captain to lead a nation in three FIFA World Cup finals after Argentina's progression in the 2026 tournament. He aims to secure back-to-back titles for Argentina in the upcoming match against Spain.
Why it matters
This marks a historic milestone in professional sports, cementing Messi's legacy as one of the most successful captains in football history.
Lionel Messi added yet another extraordinary chapter to his glittering career even before a ball was kicked in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final on Sunday, becoming the first player in history to captain his country in three World Cup finals.As Messi walked out to lead defending champions Argentina against Spain at the MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey, the 39-year-old achieved a feat unmatched by any captain in the tournament's 96-year history. The Argentine superstar previously wore the captain's armband in the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil and the unforgettable 2022 title clash against France in Qatar. Sunday's showdown marked his third appearance as captain on football's biggest stage, breaking new ground in World Cup history.Messi's first World Cup final as skipper ended in heartbreak, with Argentina suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Germany after extra time at the Maracana.
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