Lionel Messi's record in FIFA World Cup quarter-finals: Wins, losses and complete history
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Messi is set to play in the fifth World Cup quarter-final of his career.
Before the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar, Lionel Messi had accomplished almost everything on his career checklist.
Messi, often referred to as “La Pulga” or “The Flea” in Spanish, has won more major team and individual awards than any other player in international football history. However, he had failed to win the World Cup trophy, which is the most famous and coveted reward in the sport, until 2022.
The World Cup 2022 witnessed one of the greatest of all time finally lifting the only trophy that always eluded him.
Messi and Argentina aim to reclaim their title in 2026.
We look at Lionel Messi’s record in the FIFA World Cup quarterfinals.
- Appearances: 4
- Wins: 2
- Defeats: 2
1. FIFA World Cup 2006: Germany
Defeat: Argentina 1-1 Germany (4-2 pens)
In the FIFA World Cup 2006 quarterfinal, Germany defeated Argentina 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw on June 30, 2006. Argentina’s Roberto Ayala opened the score, but Germany’s Miroslav Klose equalised, forcing the hosts to win the shootout.
In the World Cup quarterfinal between Argentina and Germany, Lionel Messi did not play in the game. After a 1-1 tie, Argentina was eliminated by the hosts in a penalty shootout, and he watched the entire as a substitute.
2. FIFA World Cup 2010: South Africa
Defeat: Argentina 0-4 Germany
After failing to score or register an assist, Lionel Messi’s effort in the World Cup 2010 quarterfinal versus Germany resulted in a disappointing 4-0 loss.
He was often pressed into deeper midfield duties to initiate attacks as his teammates grew isolated. He did manage seven shots in total and placed two on target.
3. FIFA World Cup 2014: Brazil
Win: Belgium 0-1 Argentina
Argentina defeated Belgium 1-0 in the quarterfinals of the World Cup 2014. All thanks to a masterful playmaking performance by Lionel Messi. Although he didn’t score, he was the mastermind behind the assault.
He was renowned for dispossessing Vincent Kompany. Then he threaded a ball through the Belgian defence to set up Gonzalo Higuaín’s early winning goal. The South American giants secured a narrow win and reached the semi-final.
4. FIFA World Cup 2022: Qatar
Win: Argentina 2-2 Netherlands (4-3 pens)
Argentina advanced to the semi-finals of the World Cup 2022 after a masterful performance by Lionel Messi, who scored and assisted in normal time. Additionally, he converted his penalty in the shootout.
He was the main playmaker outside of the scoreboard, setting up three crucial opportunities and managing the game’s tempo. The Netherlands made a late rally to force extra time. It resulted in penalties, with Argentina winning it 4-3.
How many times has Lionel Messi played in a World Cup quarter-final?
So far, four times. The 2026 edition will be his fifth.
How many times has Lionel Messi progressed from a World Cup quarter-final?
Only twice, in 2014 and 2022.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.