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Pelé's World Cup record under threat as Messi eyes historic third final

2026-07-16 · Pelé · Player Focus

Lionel Messi is on the verge of breaking a World Cup record that eluded even Pelé and Diego Maradona. The Argentine superstar is set to become the first player in history to reach three World Cup finals, a feat neither the Brazilian legend nor the late Argentine icon could accomplish.

What happened?

Messi's Argentina team is preparing for the 2026 World Cup final, where a victory would cement his status as the greatest of all time. Pelé, who won three World Cups in 1958, 1962, and 1970, never reached a final more than twice. Maradona, despite his heroics in 1986, only made it to one final.

Why it matters for Pelé

Pelé's legacy as the only three-time World Cup winner remains unmatched. However, Messi's potential third final appearance highlights a shift in the modern game. While Pelé's achievements were spread over three different tournaments, Messi's consistency in reaching multiple finals underscores his longevity and dominance.

What comes next?

If Messi wins the 2026 World Cup, he will join Pelé as a three-time champion. This would spark a new debate about who holds the title of the greatest football player of all time. For now, Pelé's record of three World Cup wins remains untouched, but Messi's pursuit of a third final adds another chapter to this ongoing discussion.

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