Messi Extends 21-Year Scoring Streak, Closing in on Ronaldo’s Record
Lionel Messi starred in Argentina’s 5-0 win over Zambia, scoring his 116th international goal in front of what could be his final home crowd before the 2026 World Cup. His strike marked his first of 2026 and extended his run of scoring in every calendar year since his 2005 debut. Messi now boasts 21 consecutive years with an international goal, placing him second behind Cristiano Ronaldo, who leads with 22 straight years for Portugal. Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Edin Džeko sits third with 20 years, followed by Robbie Keane and Robert Lewandowski at 19 years each. With his most prolific season in 2022—netting 18 goals, including seven at the Qatar World Cup—Messi will turn his attention to helping Argentina defend their title. Meanwhile, Ronaldo, on 143 goals in 226 appearances, is chasing his first World Cup success as both legends gear up for possibly their final tournament.
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