Lionel Messi is scripting World Cup history, becoming the first player to…

Argentine Lionel Messi (AP photo) Lionel Messi added another extraordinary chapter to his storied career after becoming the first player in FIFA World Cup history to score in eight consecutive matches. The Argentina captain achieved the unprecedented milestone during his side’s dramatic 3-2 extra-time victory over Cape Verde to help the defending champions secure a place in the round of 16.Messi wasted no time in making his mark, opening the scoring in the 29th minute with a trademark finish. The 39-year-old timed his run perfectly, latching on to a lofted pass from Lisandro Martinez before taking a touch and smashing the ball into the roof of the net, leaving veteran goalkeeper Vozinha with no chance.The goal was much more than just another addition to Messi’s remarkable tally. It was his 20th career FIFA World Cup goal, extending his own record in the competition while also becoming the only player ever to find the net in eight consecutive World Cup matches. During this incredible streak, Messi scored 12 goals, a feat unmatched in the history of the tournament.However, Argentina were made to work hard by a fearless Cape Verdean side who went on to make their fairytale debut at the World Cup. Sidny Lopes Cabral canceled out Messi’s opener before Lisandro Martinez restored Argentina’s lead in extra time. Deroy Duarte struck again for Cape Verde to level the game, but Argentina eventually secured victory in the 111th minute when Cristiano Romero’s header was deflected into an own goal by Diney Borges.The result sends Argentina into the round of 16, where they will face Egypt after the African side eliminated Australia in a penalty shoot-out.Messi’s latest strike also boosted his bid for another Golden Boot. The Argentina captain now has seven goals in the tournament, one more than France’s Kylian Mbappé, and moved two goals clear of his arch-rival in the all-time FIFA World Cup scoring record.While Argentina survived a major upset against the surprise package of the tournament, the night ultimately belonged to Messi. With yet another record added to his glittering legacy, the football icon has once again proven why he continues to redefine greatness on world football’s biggest stage.