Messi sets the pace in World Cup dribble rankings

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has emerged as the leading dribbler at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after an outstanding performance in his side's semi-final victory over England. The veteran forward moved ahead of Spain's Lamine Yamal following Argentina's 2-1 comeback win on Wednesday, a result that secured the defending champions a place in the World Cup final. Messi played a decisive role in the victory, recording two assists and completing nine successful dribbles to trouble England's defence throughout the encounter. Updated FIFA tournament statistics show the 39-year-old now leads the competition with 24 successful dribbles, surpassing Yamal, who has registered 22. Brazil winger Vinicius Junior occupies third place with 16 successful dribbles, while Germany's Jamal Musiala and France's Michael Olise are tied for fourth on 15 each. Algeria international Ibrahim Maza follows with 14 successful dribbles, alongside France captain Kylian Mbappe, while England midfielder Jude Bellingham and Paraguay's Julio Enciso have each recorded 13. Messi's latest display adds to an impressive World Cup campaign that has seen him combine creativity with leadership as Argentina chase back-to-back world titles.