Messi did it again at World Cup 2026: his 20th World Cup finals goal fired Argentina to a dramatic 3-2 win over Cape Verde in Miami. That’s seven goals in this tournament alone, a record he first broke during the group stage in the United States. For Thomas Tuchel’s England, the Messi mania taking over Miami is a warning shot — the reigning world champion is peaking again, and the road to glory may well run through him.
Messi in Miami: seven goals and a record no one can touch
Messi now has 20 World Cup finals goals, a record he broke and then extended in the United States. After three against Algeria, two against Austria and one against Jordan, he added another against Cape Verde. Miami turned into Argentine territory: murals, sky-blue-and-white flags and Argentine beef dishes took over the streets around the stadium.
At 38, the little maestro is still calling the shots. His opener, described as a ‘sensational’ finish, unlocked a tense game Argentina eventually won 3-2. That output should worry every contender in the last 32 — and England know it as well as anyone.
What the Argentine threat means for England
For England, a knockout meeting with Argentina would be the tie of the tournament. Shutting down an in-form Messi would demand a compact midfield block from Tuchel and disciplined marking in the half-spaces where the Argentine drifts to create.
England’s answer lies in Jude Bellingham’s drive, Harry Kane’s finishing and a squad with real depth. If the Three Lions can control tempo and deny Argentina the ball, they can rob Messi of his most dangerous weapon: time and space to think.
World Cup fever and the pressure on the Three Lions
The scenes in Miami show the scale of this 48-team World Cup. Argentine support dominates, but it’s also a reminder to England fans of how important it is to travel and make noise on North American soil. Every England game will feel like a final.
England know that pressure well. Tuchel’s challenge is to turn the lessons of recent near-misses into a decisive edge against nations driven by their superstars — with Messi top of the list to beat.
FAQ
How many goals has Messi scored at World Cup 2026?
In Argentina’s 3-2 win over Cape Verde in the last 32, Messi scored his seventh goal of the tournament, taking him to 20 World Cup finals goals — a record.
Could England play Argentina at World Cup 2026?
Yes, an England v Argentina knockout tie is possible from the quarter-finals onwards, depending on the bracket. It would be one of the standout fixtures of the tournament.
Who is the all-time top scorer in World Cup finals history?
With 20 goals in the finals, Messi now holds the record for the most goals scored in World Cup finals matches, ahead of Miroslav Klose (16).
Why has Miami become Argentine territory?
Miami’s large South American community and Messi’s presence transformed the city: murals, sky-blue-and-white flags and Argentine beef dishes filled the streets around the stadium.
What are England’s chances at the 2026 World Cup?
With Bellingham, Kane and a deep squad under Tuchel, England are among the favourites, but they must get past powers like Argentina, France and Spain to lift the trophy.
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