Lionel Messi etched his name deeper into FIFA World Cup history after registering his 10th assist in the tournament during Argentina’s 3-1 extra-time win over Switzerland in the quarter-finals. The Argentine captain delivered a perfect corner for Alexis Mac Allister’s opening goal, becoming the first player to reach double digits in World Cup assists since official records began in 1966.

Lionel Messi breaks Maradona’s record with historic assist

Messi’s milestone came just 10 minutes into the match when his curling corner found Mac Allister, who headed Argentina into an early lead. The assist took the 39-year-old to 10 in FIFA World Cup history, surpassing Diego Maradona’s previous Argentina record and setting a new all-time benchmark. Previously, Diego Maradona had a record of 8 assists in his World Cup career.

The achievement is another testament to Messi’s remarkable consistency on football’s biggest stage. Having appeared in six World Cups, the Argentina captain has continued to influence matches not only with goals but also with his vision, passing and creativity.

Messi’s record-breaking assist also underlined his importance to Lionel Scaloni’s side as the defending champions continue their pursuit of back-to-back World Cup titles.

Argentina survive Switzerland challenge to book last-four berth

Argentina started brightly with Mac Allister’s early header, but Switzerland fought back after Dan Ndoye restored parity in the second half. The match shifted in Argentina’s favour when Swiss striker Breel Embolo was shown a red card, leaving his side with 10 men.

The defending champions made the advantage count in extra time. Julián Álvarez restored Argentina’s lead with a clinical finish before Lautaro Martínez added a third to secure a 3-1 victory and seal a place in the semi-finals.

Although Messi did not get on the scoresheet, he once again proved decisive with his playmaking. His record-setting 10th World Cup assist was the defining moment of another memorable night for Argentina, who are now just two wins away from retaining the FIFA World Cup trophy.

With England awaiting in the semi-finals, Messi will have another opportunity to extend his remarkable World Cup legacy as Argentina continue their quest for another global crown.