Argentina captain Lionel Messi has climbed to the top of the 2026 FIFA World Cup’s successful dribbling rankings after another masterclass in his side’s dramatic 2-1 semi-final victory over England.
The 39-year-old rolled back the years with a mesmerizing performance, completing nine successful dribbles and providing two assists as Argentina came from behind to book their place in the World Cup final.
Messi’s latest display not only inspired the defending champions to another appearance in football’s biggest match but also saw him overtake Spain sensation Lamine Yamal to become the tournament’s most effective dribbler.
His remarkable achievement once again highlighted why he continues to perform at an elite level despite being one of the oldest outfield players at the competition.
Brilliant display against England
Argentina faced a stern examination against England in one of the most anticipated matches of the tournament. With a place in the World Cup final at stake, Messi once again produced when his country needed him most.
The veteran forward orchestrated Argentina’s comeback by setting up both Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez, who found the net to secure a 2-1 victory over the Three Lions.
Beyond his creativity, Messi constantly troubled England’s defence with his close control, quick changes of direction and ability to glide past defenders in tight spaces.
His nine successful dribbles during the semi-final were the highest recorded by any player in a single match at this stage of the tournament and proved decisive in helping Argentina dominate key moments of the contest.
Messi moves to the top of FIFA’s dribbling rankings
According to official FIFA World Cup statistics, Messi’s outstanding semi-final performance has propelled him to the top of the tournament’s successful dribbling chart.
Having completed 24 successful dribbles so far, the Argentina captain has overtaken Spain’s teenage star Lamine Yamal, who had led the rankings for much of the competition.
The latest numbers underline Messi’s continued ability to beat defenders even at 39 years of age, a quality that has defined his extraordinary career for nearly two decades.
His performances throughout the tournament have combined creativity, intelligence and technical brilliance, making him one of the standout players once again.
Top dribblers at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
Following the semi-finals, the tournament’s leading successful dribblers are:
Rank Player Successful Dribbles
1 Lionel Messi 24
2 Lamine Yamal 22
3 Vinicius Junior 16
4 Jamal Musiala 15
5 Michael Olise 15
6 Ibrahim Maza 14
7 Kylian Mbappe 14
8 Jude Bellingham 13
9 Julio Enciso 13
The rankings reflect the incredible attacking talent on display throughout the tournament, with several of world football’s brightest stars showcasing their ability to eliminate defenders in one-on-one situations.
Defying age once again
Messi’s latest achievement is perhaps even more impressive considering his age. At 39, many players have long since retired from international football or transitioned into reduced roles. Instead, the Argentine captain continues to dictate matches against some of the world’s strongest teams.
His vision, balance and close control remain among the finest in world football, allowing him to overcome younger and more athletic opponents through intelligence and technical excellence.
The World Cup has once again demonstrated that while pace may diminish with age, exceptional football intelligence and elite technical ability remain invaluable. Messi’s performances throughout the tournament have been a perfect example of that reality.
Chasing another World Cup title
The statistics are merely another reflection of Messi’s overall influence on Argentina’s campaign. The defending champions have once again relied heavily on their captain’s leadership and creativity as they seek to retain the FIFA World Cup.
His two assists against England took his tournament contribution to another level, while his dribbling numbers underline how consistently he has created problems for opposing defences.
With Argentina now preparing to face Spain in the World Cup final, Messi has one final opportunity to extend his lead at the top of the dribbling charts.
Should he produce another outstanding display in the championship match, he could finish the tournament with one of the most memorable individual campaigns in World Cup history.
One final challenge awaits
Argentina’s victory over England has set up a blockbuster final against Spain, who reached the showpiece after defeating France in the other semi-final.
The contest promises to feature two of the tournament’s most technically gifted teams, with Messi expected to face another stern test against one of Europe’s strongest defensive units.
For the Argentina captain, however, personal statistics are unlikely to be the priority. Although leading the World Cup in successful dribbles is another remarkable accomplishment, Messi’s primary objective remains helping Argentina successfully defend their world title.
If he can inspire his country to victory once again, topping the tournament’s dribbling rankings will simply become another memorable chapter in an already legendary World Cup campaign.
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