Lionel Messi added another remarkable chapter to his storied career after becoming the first player in FIFA World Cup history to score in eight consecutive matches. The Argentina captain scored an unprecedented milestone during his side’s dramatic 3-2 extra-time win against Cape Verde, helping the defending champions secure a place in the last 16.Messi wasted little time in making his mark, opening the scoring in the 29th minute with a signature finish. Timing his run perfectly, the 39-year-old latched on to Lisandro Martinez’s high pass before taking a touch and hammering the ball into the roof of the net, leaving veteran goalkeeper Vozinha with no chance.The goal was far more than just another addition to Messi’s remarkable tally. It was his 20th career FIFA World Cup goal, extending his own record in the competition while also making him the only player ever to find the back of the net in eight consecutive World Cup matches. During that incredible streak, Messi scored 12 goals, a feat unmatched in the tournament’s history.Argentina, however, were made to work hard by a fearless Cape Verde side who continued their fairytale debut World Cup campaign. Sidny Lopes Cabral canceled out Messi’s first strike before Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina’s lead in extra time. Deroy Duarte struck again for Cape Verde to level the contest, but Argentina eventually secured victory in the 111th minute when Cristian Romero headed home Diney Borges for an own goal.The result sends Argentina into the round of 16, where they will meet Egypt after the African side eliminated Australia in stoppage time.Messi’s latest strike has also strengthened his bid for another Golden Boot. The Argentina captain now has seven goals in the tournament, one more than France’s Kylian Mbappé, and moved two goals clear of his long-time rival on the all-time FIFA World Cup goalscoring list.While Argentina survived a major scare from the tournament’s surprise package, the night ultimately belonged to Messi. With another record added to his glittering legacy, the football icon has once again proven why he continues to redefine greatness on world football’s biggest stage.
