Lionel Messi has once more recompiled the history books of football, this time not with a goal but with a pass. The 38-year-old captain recorded two assists during Argentina’s dominating 6-0 victory over Puerto Rico, bringing his total in men’s international football to 60, over Brazil’s Neymar Jr., whose 58 record before was held.
Accomplished in front of a furious Miami audience, the milestone represented Messi’s game’s development from a brilliant scorer to a sophisticated playmaker. who sets the pace of every strike. Although he did not score in the friendly, his eye and accuracy in setting chances for Alexis Mac Allister and Lautaro Martinez showed that his artistic ability remains undamaged despite almost two decades at the top level.
Messi’s new standard highlights his longevity and range. Having already dominated world rankings, this most recent accomplishment emphasizes how the Argentine legend keeps changing his role to match the team’s needs. Over his 185 matches for Argentina, he has assisted in every type of game, from low-profile friendlies to Copa America 2024 finals, therefore proving that he has never wavered in his devotion to his country.
For many years, Neymar, currently second on the list, had been regarded as football’s most creative force in South America. But few can touch Messi’s constant greatness over five World Cups and many regional campaigns. His 60th assist also breaks Landon Donovan’s North American mark, therefore broadening his influence beyond local feuds. Argentina’s resounding victory served as a reminder of their depth and power as reigning world champions rather than just a friendly warm-up.
For Messi, Inter Miami vs. Necaxa, it was another understated affirmation of brilliance, proof that though his scoring rate had slowed, his capacity to orchestrate play has achieved a degree almost timeless. Still the Gold Standard of Modern Football at 38, Lionel Messi proves why he is still the gold standard without signs of deterioration in invention or leadership.