Messi set for 34th World Cup match in final, possibly his last

Lionel Messi is set to play his 34th World Cup match on Sunday, when Argentina faces either France or Morocco in the final. The match could be his last in the tournament, as the 35-year-old has not confirmed whether he will continue to the 2026 edition. Messi's appearance in the final marks a historic milestone: he will become the player with the most World Cup matches in history, surpassing Lothar Matthäus's record of 25. This achievement underscores his enduring impact on the sport. Argentina's journey to the final has been dramatic, with Messi scoring four goals and providing two assists so far. The team's performance has captivated fans worldwide, and the final represents a chance for Messi to cement his legacy with a World Cup title. Regardless of the outcome, Sunday's match may be the last time fans see Messi on football's biggest stage. The decision about his international future will likely come after the tournament, but for now, all eyes are on the final.