Lionel Messi: A Ballon d'Or Contender After World Cup Heroics and MLS Brilliance

Messi’s Last-Minute Brilliance Against England

In the dying moments of the 92nd minute, Lionel Messi found himself forced onto his weaker foot by Nico O'Reilly and Djed Spence near the right side of the box. England's defense braced as four towering players guarded the six-yard line, leaving Messi with only one realistic target: Lautaro Martinez at the back post. Yet Messi, at 39, summoned his trademark precision and delivered a perfect cross that Martinez headed into Jordan Pickford’s net, clinching a 2-1 victory and sending Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final.

Following the goal, it was Messi, not Martinez, who received the adulation from teammates and coaches alike, underscoring the legendary status he retains on the global stage.

Dominance and Tactical Exploits

Messi dominated the last half-hour, exploiting Thomas Tuchel’s defensive strategy ruthlessly. With eight Ballon d’Or titles already, this performance has strengthened the case for a ninth, as he remains the tournament’s most influential figure. Facing Spain in the final, Messi’s leadership and hunger could prove decisive, despite Argentina entering as underdogs.

Argentina’s Grit and Messi’s Leadership

Before the semifinal, Argentina’s campaign was less convincing. They advanced through a favorable group and narrowly escaped against Cape Verde, Egypt, and Switzerland, often needing extra time. The absence of nine players from the 2022 squad, including Angel Di Maria, has impacted their width and midfield balance, leaving vulnerabilities.

Still, no team matches Argentina’s resilience. Under pressure, they elevate their play, driven by Messi’s calm presence and relentless drive. He constantly demands the ball, inspiring his teammates to transform into relentless competitors refusing to quit until victory is secured.

The Ultimate Risk-Taker

Messi’s longevity baffles many. Unlike Cristiano Ronaldo, whose decline has been more apparent, Messi shuns hype and adapts seamlessly. At times, he appears almost ordinary, especially during the first half against England, but always finds another gear. His World Cup knockout stats are remarkable: two assists, nine successful dribbles—unprecedented for a match of this level—and leading the Golden Boot race with eight goals and four assists.

Every pass and run reflects purpose and risk. Where others might play safe, Messi opts for incisive passes or mesmerising runs. Even after over two decades of brilliance, opponents struggle to contain him once he’s in full flow.

Enjoying the Moment

“I’ve been preparing and training for a year now, and I knew I was going to give it my all to be in the best possible shape,” Messi said after the England win. “Right now I just want to enjoy myself. I’m not talking about my last World Cup or anything like that. This team always gives its all and owes nothing to anyone.”

Unlike the serious and intense Messi at Qatar 2022, this time he shows more joy and relaxation, even while maintaining high intensity. Playing 420 minutes in the knockout rounds, he seems to peak perfectly for the final, undeterred by Spain’s lineup.

Spain’s Threat and Yamal’s Chances

Argentina will not allow Spain to dominate as France did earlier. Spain’s star-studded front line failed to deliver against France, marked tightly and outmaneuvered. Argentina’s fierce approach should disrupt Spain’s rhythm. Coach Scaloni likely has specific plans to contain Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal, who has yet to hit top form after an injury. Yamal’s chances for the Ballon d’Or appear slim unless he scores multiple goals in a Spain win.

Messi’s Impact in MLS

Messi’s 2023 Ballon d’Or victory was bolstered by his World Cup success and stellar season at Paris Saint-Germain, where he scored 41 combined goals and assists and won Ligue 1. In 2026, he has continued this form at Inter Miami, leading them to their first MLS Cup with record-breaking postseason contributions and golden boot honors despite injuries.

This season, Messi has played almost every minute, adding 20 more goal involvements in MLS. Though MLS lacks Europe’s prestige, Messi’s performances have elevated Inter Miami’s status and further justify his Ballon d’Or candidacy.

A Leader Beyond Compare

Argentina’s devotion to Messi goes beyond normal team dynamics. The squad fully backs him, willing to sacrifice themselves so he can flourish. Guiliano Simeone expressed deep emotion after the England win, highlighting Messi’s relentless fighting spirit at 39.

The team embraced a new anthem this World Cup, La Cuarta Estrella, celebrating their past victories with Messi and aiming for a fourth star to honor Maradona’s legacy and Messi’s final World Cup run.

Few active players carry such mythical status and manage to meet those expectations consistently. Messi has redefined football greatness and stands poised to claim a ninth Ballon d’Or, no matter what happens in Sunday’s final.