Lionel Messi Equals Diego Maradona’s Record for Most FIFA World Cup Appearances for Argentina

• Lionel Messi equalled the record of legend Diego Maradona as the Argentine with the most World Cup appearances
• The 35-year-old made his 21st World Cup appearance after he took to the field for Argentina’s second Group C game against Mexico
• Messi now looks set to become the most capped Argentine player at the World Cup if he features in Argentina’s final group game against Poland

Lionel Messi tied the record set by the legendary Diego Maradona after taking the field for Argentina versus Mexico in their second Group C encounter of the FIFA World Cup.

Messi earned his 21st World Cup cap for Argentina as he led the Albiceleste out in their crunch Group C tie against Mexico to equal Maradona’s record.

The landmark comes a day after the death anniversary of Maradona, when the two-time World Cup winner passed away two years ago, on November 25, 2022.

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The 35-year-old also surpassed former Barcelona and Argentina teammate Javier Mascherano, who was previously second with 20 appearances on the biggest stage of international football.

Messi will be hoping to replicate Maradona’s record by winning the World Cup with Argentina in what he has confessed might be his last appearance at the Mundial.

Lionel Messi pays tribute to Diego Maradona

Meanwhile, Lionel Messi posted a tribute to Diego Maradona two years on from his death despite being publicly questioned by the late icon's son, Daily Mirror reports.

Diego Maradona Jr had taken a swipe at Messi as he said Messi should not be compared with his father following the Argentine legend’s achievements with the national team.

Messi however took to social media to issue a simple tribute to the Argentine great by uploading a picture of Maradona in action from his playing days, with no caption.

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Argentina Boss provides fitness update on Messi

Earlier. Sports Brief reported Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni has provided positive news on his star Lionel Messi ahead of a crucial encounter with Mexico.

The Argentines suffered a historic defeat to Saudi Arabia in one of the greatest World Cup upsets in recent memory, and anything other than a win over Mexico would be disastrous.

Argentina went into the tournament as pre-tournament favourites and started the game well versus Saudi Arabia, going ahead courtesy of Messi's penalty. Several of their goals were disallowed for offside.