Lionel Messi stepped onto the Kansas City pitch on Tuesday, becoming the first player to appear in six men's World Cups. The 38‑year‑old added a historic milestone to an already glittering résumé, marking his 200th cap for Argentina in a 6‑0 start against Algeria. The moment cemented his place beside legends like Lothar Matthäus.

Messi's debut in 2006 saw him score on a substitute appearance, and that spark has fueled a career that now eclipses Cristiano Ronaldo, Antonio Carbajal, Andrés Guardado, Rafael Márquez and Lothar Matthäus as the most‑capped World Cup competitor. His 27th World Cup match came a beat away from breaking the record held by the former German great.

Argentina's opening win over Algeria set the tone for a campaign that could be Messi's swan song, as he hinted this might be his last international contest. The Inter Miami forward has yet to confirm retirement, but his presence in Kansas City signals a farewell tour for a player who has already reshaped the sport's history.

With Ronaldo set to match Messi's tally in Portugal's opener against Congo DR, the race to six World Cup appearances will finish in this tournament. Guillermo Ochoa also earned a sixth squad spot, yet never played in two past editions. Messi's record underscores the longevity rare in modern football and confirms his legacy as the sport's most enduring icon.