Lionel Messi has claimed the spot as the World Cup’s top dribbler following Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 victory over England in the semi-finals of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Argentina captain delivered another influential performance on Wednesday, completing nine successful dribbles and providing two assists as his side recovered from an early setback to secure a place in the tournament’s final.
Messi’s creative display helped Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez find the net, sealing Argentina’s comeback victory and extending the veteran forward’s remarkable impact on football’s biggest stage.
According to official FIFA World Cup statistics, the 39-year-old has now completed 24 successful dribbles in the competition, moving ahead of Spain winger Lamine Yamal, who previously led the rankings with 22.
Messi Leads Dribbling Rankings
Messi’s latest performance has further highlighted his influence throughout the tournament despite entering the competition at 39 years old.
His nine successful dribbles against England proved decisive in helping Argentina control key moments of the match while also creating two goals for his teammates.
With 24 successful dribbles, Messi now sits at the top of the tournament’s dribbling leaderboard, followed by Yamal with 22.
Brazil forward Vinicius Junior occupies third place with 16 successful dribbles, while Germany’s Jamal Musiala and France’s Michael Olise are tied in fourth position after recording 15 each.
The list also features Algeria’s Ibrahim Maza and France captain Kylian Mbappe with 14 successful dribbles apiece, while England midfielder Jude Bellingham and Paraguay’s Julio Enciso have each registered 13.
Full List of the Tournament’s Leading Dribblers
The latest FIFA World Cup rankings for successful dribbles are:
- Lionel Messi – 24
- Lamine Yamal – 22
- Vinicius Junior – 16
- Jamal Musiala – 15
- Michael Olise – 15
- Ibrahim Maza – 14
- Kylian Mbappe – 14
- Jude Bellingham – 13
- Julio Enciso – 13
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Messi’s rise to become the World Cup’s top dribbler adds another milestone to an already remarkable campaign as Argentina prepares for the World Cup final.
With his creativity, close control and ability to beat defenders continuing to shine, the Argentine legend remains one of the tournament’s standout performers as he looks to guide his country to another World Cup triumph.
