Argentina captain Lionel Messi has overtaken Spain’s Lamine Yamal to become the leading dribbler at the ongoing 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding another milestone to his remarkable tournament campaign.
According to the latest tournament statistics, Messi has completed 24 successful dribbles, moving ahead of Yamal, who has recorded 22, following Argentina’s progression to the World Cup final. The updated rankings reflect performances through the semi-final stage of the competition.
Brazil winger Vinícius Júnior occupies third place with 16 successful dribbles, while France’s Michael Olise and Germany’s Jamal Musiala are tied for fourth with 15 each.
Messi’s rise to the top of the dribbling charts comes after another influential display for Argentina in the semi-finals, where the 39-year-old played a key role in guiding the reigning champions into the final. The Inter Miami forward has continued to defy age with a series of standout performances, combining goals, assists and his trademark close control throughout the tournament.
Yamal, who had led the dribbling standings for much of the tournament, remains one of the breakout stars of the World Cup. The Spanish teenager has been widely praised for his pace, creativity and ability to beat defenders, helping Spain reach the final with a string of impressive displays.
Top five successful dribblers at the 2026 FIFA World Cup (after the semi-finals):
Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 24
Lamine Yamal (Spain) – 22
Vinícius Júnior (Brazil) – 16
Michael Olise (France) – 15
Jamal Musiala (Germany) – 15
With Argentina set to face Spain in the World Cup final, the battle between Messi and Yamal is expected to extend beyond the race for the trophy, with both players also vying to finish the tournament as its most effective dribbler.
