Lionel Messi: A Ballon d'Or Contender After World Cup Heroics and MLS Brilliance

In the 92nd minute of stoppage time, Lionel Messi was forced onto his weaker foot by Nico O'Reilly and Djed Spence near the right side of the box. England supporters collectively held their breath as four tall defenders crowded the six-yard box. Messi’s only viable option was a pinpoint cross to Lautaro Martinez at the back post. Yet, Messi produced a perfect delivery, his trademark brilliance on display once again.

The ball found Martinez’s head, sending it crashing past Jordan Pickford to secure a 2-1 comeback victory for Argentina and a spot in the 2026 World Cup final. Instead of celebrating with Martinez, the majority of Argentina’s squad surrounded Messi, underscoring the superstar’s god-like status at 39 and recognizing his pivotal role in dragging the team forward.

Dominance in the Final Half-Hour

Messi tormented England during the last 30 minutes. Thomas Tuchel's defensive approach arguably played into Messi's hands, but the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner exploited the situation mercilessly. A ninth Golden Ball could be within reach this year given Messi’s influence throughout the expanded tournament. Another stellar performance in the final against Spain—and his supposed successor at Barcelona, Lamine Yamal—would cement that claim.

Argentina enter the final as underdogs but hold firm confidence. If Spain grants them even a slight opening, Argentina’s collective belief combined with Messi’s relentless drive could see them lift the trophy again.

Argentina’s Tough Road and Messi’s Leadership

Before the semi-final, Argentina’s performances in North America had been unconvincing. Despite cruising through a favorable group, they narrowly escaped Cape Verde, Egypt, and Switzerland in knockout rounds, needing extra time twice. The 2022 Qatar squad had more depth; nine players from that victorious team didn’t travel this time, including Angel Di Maria, whose absence left Argentina lacking width and exposed midfield gaps.

Still, no team matches Argentina’s resilience. They rise under pressure and never accept defeat. Messi remains the calmest presence, constantly demanding the ball and driving the team forward. His aura fuels the team’s determination, transforming them into relentless competitors until victory is claimed.

The Ultimate Risk-Taker on the Field

Messi’s humility and longevity defy explanation. Unlike his longtime rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who has visibly declined, Messi takes each match as it comes. He often appears subdued, even walking during parts of games, yet unleashes brilliance when it matters most.

Against England, Messi delivered two assists and completed nine dribbles—a first in World Cup knockout history. Leading the Golden Boot race with eight goals and providing four assists, he has already done enough to claim the third World Cup Golden Ball of his career. More important than stats is Messi’s purposefulness. Where others choose safe passes, he opts for incisive moves or dazzling runs. His willingness to take risks keeps opponents guessing.

A Renewed Joy on the Pitch

Many credit Messi’s skill for his longevity, but his perseverance often goes unnoticed. For weeks, he was uncertain about participating in his sixth World Cup, only committing when confident he could contribute. Since then, he has demonstrated his value and now enjoys the experience.

“I’ve been preparing and training for a year now, and I knew I was going to give it my all to be in the best possible shape,” Messi said after beating England. “Right now I just want to enjoy myself. This team always gives its all and owes nothing to anyone.”

Unlike the serious, driven Messi of Qatar 2022, this time he seems more relaxed and joyful. Despite playing 420 minutes in the knockout rounds, he looks fresh and ready for the final. Facing Spain, a team he knows well, he expects a balanced contest but does not fear their challenge.

Lamine Yamal’s Chances Fade

Spain will not dominate like they did against France, whose key players were neutralized in the semi-final. Argentina have no mental blocks and plan to match Spain’s intensity. Scaloni will likely manage Yamal carefully; the young Barcelona star has struggled to find consistency after injury and won’t rival Messi for the Golden Ball unless he scores multiple goals in a Spain win.

Yamal’s club-level tally falls short compared to Harry Kane’s incredible Bayern Munich season. If Messi delivers the winning moments, he will edge out the England captain, who might regret quiet knockout performances.

Messi’s Impact at Inter Miami

Messi won the 2023 Ballon d’Or mainly due to his World Cup heroics and a prolific final season at Paris Saint-Germain, tallying 41 combined goals and assists and capturing the Ligue 1 title. His 2026 campaign mirrors this success, highlighted by a spectacular year at Inter Miami.

Owned by Sir David Beckham, the franchise claimed its first MLS Cup thanks to Messi’s brilliance. He set a new single-postseason record with 13 goal involvements in six matches and secured the Golden Boot with 29 goals during the regular season, overcoming injuries that sparked retirement rumors.

In 2026, Messi started strong, playing nearly every minute in Miami’s first 15 matches and adding 20 more goal contributions. Though MLS lacks the prestige of Europe’s top leagues, Messi’s record-breaking numbers have elevated Miami’s status and strengthened his Ballon d’Or case.

A Leader Revered by His Team

Argentina’s devotion to Messi transcends typical team dynamics. Every player is committed to supporting him, sacrificing personal glory to ensure he thrives. Guiliano Simeone broke down after the England match, overwhelmed by Messi’s continued excellence at 39.

“We know Messi is 39 years old, he has everything a footballer could dream of… and then he is still fighting as the best,” Simeone said. “For us, there’s only one thing left: give everything we have, run for him and for Argentina.”

The team has embraced a new anthem, La Cuarta Estrella, which honors Messi and their quest for a fourth World Cup star, referencing Maradona and the Falklands. This mythical reverence for an active player is rare, yet Messi lives up to it, redefining what it means to be world-class and beyond.

This legacy alone makes Messi deserving of a ninth Ballon d’Or, regardless of Sunday’s final outcome.