Lionel Messi Equals Landon Donovan’s Assists Record on the International Stage
The Argentinian Super-Star Now Shares the Record of 58 Assists With Donovan
Extending His Legacy
Lionel Messi continues as one of the main protagonists of soccer news due to his extraordinary talent and unrelenting ability to break records. Recently, he equaled Landon Donovan’s national team’s remarkable record for the most assists at the senior international level. With his 58th assist for Argentina, Messi proudly shares this historic achievement with the former USMNT legend.
Lionel Messi has equalled Landon Donovan as player with 𝗠𝗢𝗦𝗧 𝗔𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗦 𝗜𝗡 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗙𝗢𝗢𝗧𝗕𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗛𝗜𝗦𝗧𝗢𝗥𝗬 (58) 🇦🇷👑 pic.twitter.com/9oK7c30lA5
— 433 (@433) November 20, 2024
Tying Donovan’s Record
Messi’s record-tying assist came during Argentina’s 1-0 victory against Peru in a crucial World Cup qualifying match. Demonstrating his trademark vision and precision, Messi weaved through the Peruvian defense before delivering a perfectly placed cross into the box. Lautaro Martínez connected with the ball in spectacular fashion, scoring a breathtaking overhead kick to secure the win for the Albiceleste.
LIONEL MESSI TO LAUTARO MARTINEZ. WORK OF ART. 🥶 pic.twitter.com/8c2pKJlOHx
— 𝐕𝐀𝐑 ☘️ (@Ziyechman) November 20, 2024
Donovan achieved a total of 58 assists before retiring in 2014, a record that took another player 10 years to match. However, Lionel Messi is now poised to surpass this record, as he is expected to remain active with the Argentine national team until at least 2025 and potentially even through the 2026 World Cup.
A Season of Highs and Lows for Messi
While Lionel Messi’s international career stats continue to impress, his first season with Inter Miami ended in disappointment. Despite being favored by soccer betting odds, Inter Miami fell short in the MLS playoffs, losing in a dramatic series against Atlanta United. It was a bittersweet conclusion for a team that had become one of the forces of the MLS.
Though the MLS Cup remains elusive, Messi’s impact on Inter Miami has been undeniable. From record-breaking performances to revitalizing the club’s brand on a global stage, the Argentine has transformed the perception of soccer in the United States.
Mauricio Pochettino on his players playing in the MLS:
“In the MLS, there is one player that is the best. That is Lionel Messi. He is the best player in the world and he is playing here.”💪🏻 pic.twitter.com/B5dIQ8L0bb
— Hayters TV (@HaytersTV) November 18, 2024
What’s Next for Messi?
As Inter Miami’s schedule draws to a close, Messi is set to take a well-deserved break before Argentina resumes its World Cup qualifying campaign in 2025. With matches against Uruguay and Brazil on the horizon, fans eagerly await the moment when Messi might surpass Donovan’s record and claim the top spot outright.
Un 🔟 para el cierre de este año 💫 pic.twitter.com/JYkbMEfCoW
— 🇦🇷 Selección Argentina ⭐⭐⭐ (@Argentina) November 20, 2024
Off the pitch, soccer rumors continue to circulate about Messi’s ambitions for the remainder of his career, including the possibility of retirement in 2025. Whether he aims to break more records, lead Argentina to further glory, or elevate Inter Miami to new heights, one thing remains certain: Lionel Messi’s story is far from over. His legacy continues to grow, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players in soccer history.