Messi's 21 World Cup goals: Writers pick their most memorable strikes
Lionel Messi announced his retirement from Argentina's national team on Monday, ending a career with 21 World Cup goals, second only to Kylian Mbappe's 22. His goals spanned five tournaments, including seven in 2022 when Argentina won the title and eight in 2026 as they reached the final. The Athletic's soccer writers reflect on their favorite Messi World Cup goals, from his first in 2006 to his late equalizer against Egypt in this summer's round of 16.
Messi's World Cup journey spanned two decades, beginning with a substitute appearance in a 6-0 rout of Serbia and Montenegro in 2006 and concluding with eight goals in eight matches this summer. His tournament output fluctuated dramatically—scoreless in 2010, four goals in 2014, a single strike in 2018, then seven in the triumphant 2022 campaign.
The Egypt round-of-16 match in Atlanta proved pivotal, as Messi missed a penalty before assisting Cristian Romero and scoring a left-footed half-volley in the 83rd minute to force extra time. His 21 goals came against 15 different opponents across five tournaments, with only Mbappe's 22 surpassing him.
Messi's retirement marks the end of an era for Argentina and global soccer fans, potentially reshaping how younger audiences engage with international tournaments. His late-career World Cup success—culminating in the 2022 title—may inspire a generation of players in South America and beyond, while broadcasters and sponsors could feel the absence of his drawing power. The emotional farewell in Atlanta, witnessed by tearful supporters, underscores how individual athletes can anchor national identity and collective memory.