Messi Overtakes Lamine Yamal to Lead World Cup Dribbling Chart
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has climbed to the top of the successful dribbles chart at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after another dazzling display in his side's semi-final victory over England.
The 39-year-old inspired Argentina's 2-1 comeback win on Wednesday, producing two assists for Enzo Fernández and Lautaro Martínez to send the defending champions into a second consecutive World Cup final.
Beyond his creativity, Messi also showcased the close control and balance that have defined his legendary career, completing nine successful dribbles during the match.
According to official FIFA World Cup statistics, that performance took his tournament tally to 24 successful dribbles, moving him ahead of Spain's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who has recorded 22.
Most Successful Dribbles at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Lionel Messi – 24
Lamine Yamal – 22
Vinícius Júnior – 16
Jamal Musiala – 15
Michael Olise – 15
Ibrahim Maza – 14
Kylian Mbappé – 14
Jude Bellingham – 13
Julio Enciso – 13
Messi's latest performance underlined his enduring quality as he continues to dictate matches despite being 39 years old.
The Argentina captain now heads into Sunday's World Cup final against Spain with the opportunity to add another historic achievement to an already glittering career.
Opinion
Messi leading the dribbling charts at this stage of the tournament is perhaps one of the strongest indicators that his brilliance remains intact. Dribbling is one of the most physically demanding aspects of football, requiring acceleration, balance and confidence—qualities that often decline with age. Yet Messi continues to outperform players nearly half his age. However, with Lamine Yamal and Spain awaiting in the final, the battle between the tournament's most experienced superstar and one of its brightest young talents promises to be one of the defining storylines of the 2026 World Cup.
