THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNEY
LIONEL MESSI
FROM ROSARIO TO THE WORLD
From a young dreamer wearing the colours of Argentina to a captain who carried his nation to football’s greatest heights. This is a journey of passion, sacrifice, heartbreak, resilience and glory — a story that will live forever in the history of football.
ARGENTINA.2005 -2006
THE STORY OF A LEGEND
CHAPTER 01
THR BEGINNING
2005 - THE FIRST DREAM
In 2005, Lionel Messi began writing the first unforgettable chapter of his international story. Wearing the colours of Argentina at the FIFA World Youth Championship in the Netherlands, the young star announced his arrival on the world stage. With six goals, including two in the final against Nigeria, Messi guided Argentina to the title and earned both the Golden Ball and Golden Boot. That same year, he made his senior international debut against Hungary on 17 August. It was only the beginning of a journey that would one day make him the captain of a World Cup-winning nation.
06
U20 Goals
01
U20 World
title
02
Golden
Awards
THE WORLD HAD JUST WITNESSED THE BEGINNING OF SOMETHING SPECIAL.
CHAPTER 02
THE FIRST GOAL
2006 -THE WORLD CUP
In 2006, Lionel Messi took his first steps onto football’s biggest international stage. On 1 March, he scored his first senior international goal against Croatia, marking a special milestone in his journey with Argentina. Later that summer, he made his FIFA World Cup debut in Germany. Against Serbia and Montenegro, Messi scored a goal and provided an assist, giving the world a glimpse of his extraordinary talent. Although Argentina’s journey ended in the quarter-finals against Germany, 2006 became the year the world began to witness the rise of a future legend.
01
Croatia :2006
2006
Debut year
6-0
vs Serbia & Montenegro
CHAPTER 03
THE FIRST FINAL
2007 - A DREAM & A HEARTBREAK
In 2007, Lionel Messi began to establish himself as one of Argentina’s most exciting attacking talents. At the Copa América in Venezuela, his creativity, dribbling and vision became central to Argentina’s journey to the final. His unforgettable chip goal against Mexico in the semi-final became one of the tournament’s defining moments. Argentina reached the final with hopes of lifting the trophy, but Brazil defeated them 3–0. It was an early international heartbreak for Messi — a painful experience that would become part of his remarkable journey towards greatness.
FINAL
Runner – up
2007
vs Mexico
VENEZU
ELA
Copa America
EVERY HEARTBREAK WAS ANOTHER STEP
TOWARDS GREATNESS.
CHAPTER 04
THE GOLDEN DREAM
2008 - THE OLYMPIC GLORY
In 2008, Lionel Messi experienced one of the most special moments of his international journey. Representing Argentina at the Beijing Olympic Games, he played a vital role in the team’s journey towards the gold medal. His vision and creativity helped Argentina reach the final against Nigeria. In the decisive match, Messi provided the pass for Ángel Di María, who scored the winning goal. Argentina became Olympic champions, and Messi added another unforgettable achievement to his growing legacy. It was a golden moment that brought pride to an entire nation.
🏅
GOLD
Champion
📍
BEIJING
China 2008
⚽
ASSIST
Di Maria
A GOLDEN MOMENT. AN UNFORGETTABLE
LEGACY.
CHAPTER 05
THE WORLD 'S BEST
2009 - THE RISE OF GREATNESS
The year 2009 marked a turning point in Lionel Messi’s journey towards football immortality. Representing Argentina under Diego Maradona, he carried enormous expectations as the national team fought to secure qualification for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The road was challenging, but Argentina eventually booked their place in South Africa. Beyond international football, Messi reached the summit of the sport by winning his first Ballon d’Or in December 2009, recognising his extraordinary performances throughout the year. At just 22, he had become the world’s best player. It was the beginning of an era that would redefine football greatness.
🏆
01
FIRST VICTORY
📆
22
At first Ballond'or
2010
Qualification
secured
THE WPRLD HAD FOUND ITS KING.
CHAPTER 06
THE SOUTH AFRICAN DREAM
2010 - A PAINFUL LESSON
In 2010, Lionel Messi arrived at the FIFA World Cup in South Africa carrying the hopes of millions of Argentine supporters. Under the leadership of Diego Maradona, Argentina entered the tournament with great ambition, and Messi became the centre of their attacking plans. Although he created chances and inspired his teammates, a World Cup goal remained beyond his reach. Argentina progressed to the quarter-finals but suffered a painful 4–0 defeat against Germany on 3 July. The dream of lifting the World Cup was postponed once again. For Messi, South Africa became a difficult chapter — one that would strengthen the determination behind his pursuit of football’s greatest prize.
THE DREAM WAS NOT OVER.IT WAS ONLY DEYLED.
2010
South Africa
Q-FINAL
Reached quarter-final
4-0
Quater-final defeat
CHAPTER 07
THE WEIGHT OF EXPECTATION
2011 - A NEW RESPONSIBILITY
In 2011, Lionel Messi returned to Argentina with the hopes of an entire nation resting on his shoulders. The country hosted the Copa América, and Messi became the centre of attention as Argentina chased international glory on home soil. Despite his creativity, vision and tireless performances, the team struggled to turn its opportunities into victories. Argentina reached the quarter-finals but were eliminated by Uruguay after a 1–1 draw and a penalty shootout. It was another painful disappointment in Messi’s international journey. Yet, behind the frustration, a stronger determination was beginning to grow — the determination to bring a major trophy home to Argentina.
🏳️
HOST
Copa America
2011
🏆
QUARTEA
Argentina
reached QF
💔
4 - 5
Uruguya
advanced
THE 2011 JOURNEY
THE DREAM WAS STILL WAITING.
CHAPTER 08
THE YEAR OF RECORDS
2012 - A YEAR BEYOND LIMITS
ONE YEAR. ONE EXTRAORDINARY RECORD.
The year 2012 became one of the most extraordinary chapters in Lionel Messi’s football journey. While representing Argentina, he scored 12 international goals, including an unforgettable hat-trick against Switzerland. Beyond his national-team performances, Messi reached an extraordinary milestone by scoring 91 goals across club and international football in a single calendar year — 79 for Barcelona and 12 for Argentina. It was a historic achievement that broke records and demonstrated the unbelievable consistency of his genius. For Argentina, it was another year in which their number 10 continued to lead with brilliance, creativity and determination.
⚽
12
International.
2012
🌐
91
Club + Country
🏅
RECORD
Historic achievement
91 GOALS. ONE UNFORGETTABLE YEAR .
PURE GREATNESS.
CHAPTER 09
THE ROAD TO BRAZIL
2013 - THE WORLD CUP DREAM
In 2013, Lionel Messi continued to lead Argentina towards the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil. Under the management of Alejandro Sabella, Argentina delivered an impressive qualifying campaign, with Messi playing a decisive role in their attacking journey. His two goals against Paraguay helped Argentina secure their place at the 2014 World Cup. Throughout the year, Messi scored six goals in seven senior international appearances, demonstrating his importance to the national team. However, injuries disrupted the final months of his campaign, forcing him to miss several matches. Despite those setbacks, Argentina had achieved their mission — the road to Brazil was complete, and the dream of lifting the World Cup was getting closer.
6
Argentina
Goals
7
Appearances
2014
World cup Qualified
THE ROAD TO BRAZIL WAS COMPLETE.THE BIGGEST DREAM WAS STILL WAITING.
4
World cup Goals
7
World cup Matches
GOLD
Golden Ball
2ND
World cup
Runner-up
CHAPTER 10
THE WORLD CUP DREAM
2014 - THE FINAL HEARTBREAK
In 2014, Lionel Messi came closer than ever to fulfilling Argentina’s greatest football dream. Wearing the captain’s armband, he led his nation through an unforgettable FIFA World Cup campaign in Brazil. Messi scored four goals in the group stage, inspiring Argentina to victories and guiding them towards the knockout rounds. His brilliance continued as Argentina reached the final for the first time since 1990. On 13 July 2014, Argentina faced Germany at the Maracanã, but Mario Götze’s extra-time goal ended their dream with a 1–0 defeat. Despite the heartbreak, Messi was awarded the FIFA World Cup Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. He had reached the biggest stage, carried his nation with pride and come painfully close to football’s ultimate glory. The trophy was still missing, but his determination had never been stronger.
SO CLOSE TO THE DREAM. FOREVER IN THE HEARTS OF ARGENTINA.
4
Argentina Goals in 2015
8
International Appearances
1
Copa America Goal
3
Copa America
Assist
CHAPTER 11
THE PAIN OF ANOTHER FINAL
2015- ANOTHER HEARTBREAK
In 2015, Lionel Messi returned to the international stage with one clear ambition — to bring a major trophy home to Argentina. As captain, he led his nation through the Copa América in Chile, inspiring the team with his creativity, vision and leadership. Argentina reached the final after an impressive campaign, with Messi scoring one goal and providing three assists during the tournament. On 4 July 2015, Argentina faced Chile in the final at the Estadio Nacional. After a goalless draw, the match went to a penalty shootout, where Chile emerged victorious with a 4–1 win. Another major international final had ended in heartbreak for Messi. Despite the disappointment, his commitment to Argentina never faded. The dream of lifting a trophy for his country remained alive, and his journey was far from over.
ANOTHER FINAL LOST. ANOTHER DREAM DELAYED. BUT THE FIGHT CONTINUED
CHAPTER 12
THE FINAL HEARTBREAK
2016- THE DARKEST MOMENT
In 2016, Lionel Messi carried Argentina into another major international tournament with the hope of finally ending the nation’s long wait for a senior international trophy. At the Copa América Centenario in the United States, Messi delivered a magnificent campaign, scoring five goals and providing four assists in just five matches. His unforgettable free-kick against the United States in the semi-final also made him Argentina’s all-time leading scorer, surpassing Gabriel Batistuta’s record. But once again, the final brought heartbreak. Argentina faced Chile on 26 June, and after 120 minutes without a goal, the match was decided by a penalty shootout. Chile won 4–2, leaving Messi devastated after he missed his penalty. The following day, he announced his retirement from international football, believing he had given everything for his country. It was one of the most emotional moments of his career — but it would not be the end of his story with Argentina.
he walked away in tears. But his history with argentina was not over.
8
Argentina Goals in 2016
11
International Appearances
5
Copa America Goal
55
Argentina Record
goals*
In 2017, Lionel Messi returned to Argentina’s international journey with renewed determination after reversing his decision to retire from the national team. As captain, he carried the hopes of an entire nation during a difficult World Cup qualifying campaign. Argentina faced the danger of missing the 2018 FIFA World Cup, but Messi refused to let the dream disappear. On 10 October 2017, in a decisive match against Ecuador in Quito, Argentina fell behind early before Messi produced one of the greatest performances of his international career. He scored a magnificent hat-trick, leading Argentina to a 3–1 victory and securing their place at the 2018 World Cup. It was a defining moment of leadership, brilliance and determination — a night when Messi once again proved how much the Argentina shirt meant to him.
CHAPTER 13
THE RETURN OF THE CAPTAIN
2017 - THE NIGHT THAT SAVED ARGENTINA
4
Argentina Goals in 2017
7
International Appearances
3
Goals vs Ecuador
2018
World cup Qualified
ONE NIGHT. THREE GOALS. ONE NATION'S DREAM SAVED.
CHAPTER 14
THE RUSSIAN HEARTBREAK
2018- A DREAM ENDED IN RUSSIA
In 2018, Lionel Messi returned to the FIFA World Cup in Russia as the captain and leader of Argentina. After a difficult qualifying campaign, he had inspired his nation to reach the tournament, carrying the hopes of millions of supporters. However, Argentina’s journey began with frustration as they drew 1–1 against Iceland, followed by a disappointing 3–0 defeat to Croatia. With their World Cup future in danger, Messi stepped forward against Nigeria on 26 June, scoring a magnificent goal to help Argentina secure a dramatic 2–1 victory and reach the knockout stage. But the journey ended in the Round of 16 against France on 30 June. Despite Messi providing two assists, Argentina suffered a thrilling 4–3 defeat. Once again, the World Cup dream slipped away. Russia became another painful chapter in his international journey, but Messi’s commitment to Argentina remained unbroken.
ANOTHER WORLD CUP ENDED. BUT THE
DREAM OF GLORY NEVER DIED.
4
World cup
Appearances
1
World cup Goal
2
Assist at world
cup
r16
Round of 16 Exit
In 2019, Lionel Messi returned to the international stage as Argentina’s captain, determined to lead his nation towards another opportunity for glory. At the Copa América in Brazil, Argentina faced a difficult beginning after losing their opening match against Colombia. However, Messi and his teammates fought back, reaching the semi-finals after victories over Qatar and Venezuela. Their journey ended against Brazil, who defeated Argentina 2–0. Yet Messi refused to let the campaign finish in disappointment. On 6 July 2019, Argentina faced Chile in the third-place match and secured a 2–1 victory to claim the bronze medal. Messi helped create Argentina’s opening goal with an assist to Sergio Agüero. However, the match also brought controversy when Messi was sent off following an altercation with Gary Medel. Argentina finished third, and although another major trophy remained out of reach, the team’s journey towards a stronger future continued.
CHAPTER 15
THE SEARCH FOR REDEMPTION
2019 - A NEW BEGINNING
5
Argentina Goals in 2019
10
International Appearances
3rd
Copa America
Finish
1
Copa America Goals
THE JOURNEY WAS NOT OVER. THE FIGHT
FOR GLORY CONTINUED.
CHAPTER 16
THE WORLD STANDS STILL
2020 - FOOTBALL AFTER THE PAUSE
2020 was an unusual year in Lionel Messi’s international journey. The COVID-19 pandemic brought football across the world to a sudden halt, postponing major tournaments and interrupting Argentina’s progress. After months away from international action, Messi returned to lead his country in the opening matches of the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. Argentina began their campaign with a 1–0 victory over Ecuador, with Messi scoring the winning goal from the penalty spot. They continued their strong start with a 2–1 away victory against Bolivia in La Paz. Although the year offered fewer opportunities to play, Messi remained a central figure in Argentina’s journey. The road to Qatar had begun, and a new generation was starting to grow around their captain.
THE WORLD STOPPED. BUT THE DREAM
NEVER DIED.
1
Argentina Goals in 2020
4
International Appearances
1 - 0
World cup Qualifire
Victory
2 - 1
World cup Qualifire
Victory
7
All 7 matches
4
Joint top scorer
5
Tournament's top assist
provider
1
Trophy won
CHAPTER 17
THE REDEMPTION
2021 - THE DREAM FINALLY CAME TRUE
2021 became the most emotional and unforgettable chapter of Lionel Messi’s international journey. After years of disappointment, three lost major finals and countless moments of heartbreak, Messi returned to lead Argentina at the Copa América in Brazil. As captain, he inspired his teammates with extraordinary performances, scoring four goals and providing five assists throughout the tournament. Argentina fought their way to the final at the legendary Maracanã Stadium, where they faced their biggest rivals, Brazil, on 10 July 2021. In the 22nd minute, Ángel Di María scored the decisive goal, and Argentina secured a historic 1–0 victory. After 28 years without a major senior international trophy, Argentina were champions once again. Messi finally lifted his first major trophy with the senior national team, embracing a moment he had dreamed of throughout his career. The tears of disappointment had finally turned into tears of joy. The wait was over. The captain had fulfilled his dream.
AFTER YEARS OF HEARTBREAK,THE DREAM
BECAME REALITY.
14
All international
matches in 2022
18
Goals
7
Goal's in Qatar world cup 2022
3
Assist in Qatar world cup 2022
2
Finalissima +FIFA
World cup
1
2022 World cup Best player
CHAPTER 18
THE IMMORTAL MOMENT
2022 - THE WORLD CHAMPION
2022 became the greatest chapter of Lionel Messi’s international journey — the year he finally achieved the dream that had followed him since childhood. He began the year by leading Argentina to victory in the Finalissima against Italy at Wembley on 1 June, adding another international trophy to his growing legacy. As the FIFA World Cup arrived in Qatar, Messi carried the hopes of an entire nation into what would become one of football’s most unforgettable tournaments. Argentina’s journey began with a shocking defeat against Saudi Arabia, but Messi refused to let the dream disappear. He scored against Mexico and Australia, inspired his team through the knockout rounds, and delivered unforgettable performances against the Netherlands and Croatia. On 18 December 2022, Argentina faced France in a dramatic World Cup final. Messi scored twice as the match finished 3–3, before Argentina won 4–2 on penalties. At last, Lionel Messi lifted the FIFA World Cup trophy. After years of heartbreak, sacrifice and determination, the boy from Rosario had reached the summit of world football. The dream was no longer a dream. It was history.
THE BOY FROM ROSARIO BECAME
THE KING OF THE WORLD
CHAPTER 19
THE CHAMPION'S LEGACY
2023 - THE WORLD STILL WATCHED
2023 was the year Lionel Messi returned to the world stage as a World Cup champion, carrying the pride of an entire nation. Argentina began the year by celebrating their historic triumph with their supporters, creating unforgettable moments at the Monumental Stadium. On 28 March, Messi produced a magical performance against Curaçao, scoring a hat-trick in a 7–0 victory and reaching the incredible milestone of 100 international goals for Argentina. He continued to lead his country through the opening stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, scoring against Ecuador and delivering another brilliant brace against Peru. Argentina finished the year at the top of the qualifying standings, with victories over Brazil and other South American rivals strengthening their position. Beyond the national team, Messi received his eighth Ballon d’Or in October, adding another extraordinary milestone to his career. The World Cup dream had been fulfilled, but the champion’s journey was far from over. He was no longer chasing history. He was continuing to create it.
the world champion. the eight-time
BALLON D'OR WINNER.THE LEGEND
CONTINUED
8
All international
matches in 2023
8
Goals
1
Assist for international matches
100
100 international's Goal's Milestone
CHAPTER 20
9
All international
matches in 2024
6
Goals
5
Assist for international matches
2ND time
Copa America won
THE CHAMPIONS AGAIN
2024 - THE LEGACY CONTINUES
2024 became another unforgettable chapter in Lionel Messi’s international journey. Returning as the captain and defending champion, he led Argentina into the Copa América in the United States with the dream of defending their title. Argentina began their campaign with victories over Canada and Chile, while Messi continued to guide his teammates through another challenging tournament. In the semi-final against Canada, he scored his first goal of the competition, helping Argentina secure a place in the final. On 14 July 2024, Argentina faced Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami. The final became an emotional battle, and Messi was forced to leave the field through injury during the second half. But his teammates continued the fight. In extra time, Lautaro Martínez scored the winning goal, securing a dramatic 1–0 victory for Argentina. Messi lifted his second consecutive Copa América trophy and his third major senior international title in a row. The champion had once again delivered for his country. The journey of greatness continued, and the legacy became even stronger.
BACK - TO - BACK CHAMPIONS. THREE
CONSECUTIVE MAJOR TITLES. ONE
ETERNAL LEGACY.
THE ROAD TO ONE MORE WORLD CUP
2025 - THE CHAMPION'S NEXT MISSION
In 2025, Lionel Messi continued his journey with Argentina as the reigning World Cup champion. The year brought a new mission: securing a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Argentina confirmed qualification in March, becoming the first South American nation to secure its place through the qualifiers. Messi continued to lead his country through the remaining qualifying matches, and on 4 September, he delivered a memorable performance against Venezuela, scoring twice in a 3–0 victory at the Monumental Stadium. It was an emotional night in Buenos Aires as supporters celebrated their captain during what was his final home World Cup qualifying appearance. Later in the year, Messi continued representing Argentina in international friendlies, scoring against Angola in November. Argentina finished the qualifying campaign at the top of the South American standings, with their captain still leading the way. The World Cup dream was alive once again. One more journey awaited the champion.
one more world cup. one more chapter.
one more dream.
CHAPTER 21
5
All international
matches in 2025
3
Goals
3
Assist for international matches
QULIFIED
For 2026 World cup
12
All international
matches in 2026
11
Goals
6
Assist for international matches
8
2026 World cup Goal's
CHAPTER 22
THE LAST WORLD CUP CAMPAIGN
2026 - THE LAST DANCE ON FOOTBALL'S STAGEGREATEST
The year 2026 brought Lionel Messi back to football’s greatest stage for one final World Cup campaign with Argentina. At 39, he continued to lead his nation with experience, determination and moments of brilliance. Argentina fought their way through the tournament, defeating several strong opponents before reaching the final once again. Messi delivered an outstanding individual campaign, scoring eight goals and providing four assists. However, the dream of another World Cup title came to an end when Argentina suffered a 1–0 defeat against Spain after extra time on 19 July 2026. It was a heartbreaking result, but Messi’s journey through the tournament added another remarkable chapter to his international legacy.
