Record 45 MLS Players Shine at 2026 World Cup as Messi Posts 8 Goals, 2 Assists
Updated
Updated · MLSsoccer.com · Jul 13
Record 45 MLS Players Shine at 2026 World Cup as Messi Posts 8 Goals, 2 Assists
3 articles · Updated · MLSsoccer.com · Jul 13
Summary
Forty-five MLS players appeared at the 2026 World Cup — a league record — as MLS resumed play with several participants returning after deep runs and breakout performances.
Messi led that group statistically, producing 8 goals and 2 assists in six games for Argentina, who are two wins from becoming the first back-to-back champions since Brazil in 1958 and 1962.
Several MLS players turned the tournament into a springboard: Chicago's 20-year-old Mbokazi boosted transfer interest with South Africa's knockout run, while Berhalter became the first MLS player to post a goal and assist in one World Cup game.
Canada's Richie Laryea and Maxime Crépeau started all five matches in the hosts' first trip to the knockout stage, and FC Dallas striker Musa scored on his World Cup debut before resuming an MLS Golden Boot chase.
The tournament also delivered wider MLS milestones, including Finn Surman's goal setting a new record of six World Cup goals by active MLS players and a first-ever World Cup start between MLS teammates Matt Freese and Aiden O'Neill.