Pelé's record has been overtaken by Lionel Messi, who scored a stunning goal against Cape Verde in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
On 06 Jul 2026, Messi's 29th-minute goal helped Argentina take the lead.
What happened?
Lionel Messi's goal contributed to his record-breaking 12 goal contributions in the knockout stages.
He surpassed Pelé and Kylian Mbappe, who each have 11 goal contributions.
Why it matters for Pelé
Pelé's record, which stood for decades, has been broken by Messi's impressive performance.
This milestone marks a significant achievement in Messi's career, solidifying his position as one of the greatest players.
What comes next?
As Argentina continues to face Cape Verde, the outcome of the match remains uncertain.
Cape Verde has equalized twice, pushing the defending champions to the brink.
The match is turning out to be one of the most thrilling games of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Messi's goal has been a highlight of the tournament so far, with Argentina currently locked in a 2-2 tie after the first half of extra time.
OptaJoe reported that Messi now holds the record for the most goal contributions in the knockout stages.
He has 6 goals and 6 assists, surpassing Pelé and Kylian Mbappe's records.
Messi has also become the first-ever player in World Cup history to have 20 goals to his name.
This achievement further expands his lead over Kylian Mbappe, cementing his position as a top player.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has seen several record-breaking moments, with Messi's performance being a notable highlight.
As the tournament progresses, fans can expect more exciting matches and impressive displays of skill.
Pelé's legacy continues to be felt in the football world, with his records being broken by newer generations of players.
Messi's achievement is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport, as he continues to make history in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The outcome of the match between Argentina and Cape Verde remains to be seen, with the score currently tied at 2-2.
Fans are on the edge of their seats, waiting to see what happens next in this thrilling game, as Messi's record-breaking performance continues to make headlines.