In the third round of Group A of the FIFA Club World Cup, Inter Miami CF secured a 2-2 draw against Palmeiras, with Lionel Messi leading the team to qualify for the Round of 16. This result further solidified Messi's unprecedented record: across his club and national team career, he has now participated in 36 cup competitions at the group stage, 100% of which have resulted in qualification to the knockout rounds.
A Historic Streak Unbroken
Messi's remarkable consistency spans over two decades and across continents. Whether wearing the jersey of Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami, or Argentina's national team, he has never failed to guide his side past the group phase. Key milestones include:
17 UEFA Champions League campaigns: Every single one ended in knockout qualification .
7 Copa América tournaments: Argentina advanced each time, with Messi lifting the trophy in 2021 .
5 FIFA World Cups: From his debut in 2006 to the triumphant 2022 Qatar campaign, Messi ensured Argentina never bowed out early .
2 Concacaf Leagues Cup appearances: Even in his new North American chapter, he maintained the streak.
This feat is unparalleled in football history. Legends like Pelé, Maradona, and Cristiano Ronaldo all experienced group-stage exits during their careers.
