Lionel Messi was once again the inspiration for Argentina as the South American side defeated Croatia 3-0 in the World Cup semi-final.
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The PSG forward scored from the penalty spot and assisted in La Albiceleste’s third, to not just break Croatian hearts but also a tournament record for his country.
With the goal, Messi has now overtaken Gabriel Batistuta as Argentina’s outright top scorer at the World Cup, with 11 goals overall.
His feat also makes him the first ever player (since records began in 1966) to both score and assist in four separate World Cup matches.
Over the course of his career, Messi has also been involved in 19 World Cup goals, scoring 11 and assisting eight more…equalling the record jointly held by Miroslav Klose, Ronaldo and Gerd Muller.
And as if that wasn’t enough, Messi is also on course to break Lothar Matthaus’ record for the most World Cup appearances.
He will be making his 26th start of the tournament when he leads his side out for the final against either France or Morocco.
And if he goes on to actually lift the trophy, it will mark yet another major milestone in what has already been a highly illustrious career for the Argentine icon.
Your move, Cristiano.
