Bibhash Lodh, BS News Agency: The quarter-final against Switzerland at Kansas City's Arrowhead Stadium was not just about Argentina reaching the semi-finals. It was the night Lionel Messi added another golden chapter to his football history. In the 10th minute of the match, Alexis McAllister scored a brilliant header from a perfect corner kick. The Argentine captain created new World Cup history with that assist. According to modern football statistics, Messi now holds the record for the most assists in the World Cup since 1966. After the Switzerland match, his number of assists in the World Cup has reached 10. Until now, another Argentine legend, Diego Maradona, had topped the list with 8 assists. Not only in assists, Messi has also strengthened his dominance in the knockout stages of the World Cup. Since 1966, he has now contributed 15 goals and assists in the knockout matches of the World Cup, which is more than any other footballer at this time. Kylian Mbappe, who is in second place on this list, has contributed 14. List of highest assists in the World Cup since 1966
Lionel Messi, Argentina, 10
Diego Maradona, Argentina, 8
Pierre Littborski, Germany, 7
Grzegorz Lato, Poland, 7
The record book does not end here. Messi has created another unique feat by coming to the 2026 World Cup. He is now the only player in football history to have at least one assist in six consecutive World Cups, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 and 2026.
Even at the end of his career, Messi's magic feet, vision and creativity have not faded at all, as was further evidenced against Switzerland. This record and excellent form will undoubtedly give the Argentina camp added confidence ahead of their semi-final clash with England.