In a moment that further cements <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a>’s legacy as one of the greatest players in the history of soccer, the 37-year-old Argentine superstar tied an impressive all-time record during a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Peru in the South American Qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup. While Messi’s brilliance on the field is no longer a surprise, the record he matched belongs to a name etched in US soccer folklore, adding an intriguing twist to the story.



The match between Argentina and Peru, held as part of the ongoing CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers, was anything but easy for the reigning world champions. With La Albiceleste struggling to break down the visitors’ resolute defense, it took a moment of magic from their captain to secure the win.



Ten minutes into the second half, Messi showcased his trademark vision and skill. Dribbling past three defenders with ease, he delivered a curling cross into the penalty area. Lautaro Martinez met the ball with a stunning half-volley, sending it into the top-right corner of the net. This decisive goal not only secured Argentina’s place at the top of the CONMEBOL standings with 25 points from 12 matches but also marked a significant personal milestone for the MLS icon.



The assist was Messi’s 58th in international soccer, a figure that now ties him with a USMNT legend for the most assists in men’s international soccer history.



<h2>USMNT legend in record books</h2>



The record Messi matched belongs to none other than&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/landon-donovan/">Landon Donovan</a>, an icon of American soccer. Donovan achieved his 58 assists across a 14-year career with the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/usmnt/">U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT)</a>, during which he became synonymous with success in North American soccer.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241120_WST_540518_Lionel-Messi-ties-USMNT-legend-Landon-Donovans-historic-record-When-can-Argentina-hero-become-player-with-most-international-assists-2-1200x675_1d4bad4c.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-540520" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-ties-USMNT-legend-Landon-Donovans-historic-record-When-can-Argentina-hero-become-player-with-most-international-assists-2-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-ties-USMNT-legend-Landon-Donovans-historic-record-When-can-Argentina-hero-become-player-with-most-international-assists-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-ties-USMNT-legend-Landon-Donovans-historic-record-When-can-Argentina-hero-become-player-with-most-international-assists-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-ties-USMNT-legend-Landon-Donovans-historic-record-When-can-Argentina-hero-become-player-with-most-international-assists-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-ties-USMNT-legend-Landon-Donovans-historic-record-When-can-Argentina-hero-become-player-with-most-international-assists-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-ties-USMNT-legend-Landon-Donovans-historic-record-When-can-Argentina-hero-become-player-with-most-international-assists-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-ties-USMNT-legend-Landon-Donovans-historic-record-When-can-Argentina-hero-become-player-with-most-international-assists-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-ties-USMNT-legend-Landon-Donovans-historic-record-When-can-Argentina-hero-become-player-with-most-international-assists-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Donovan’s legacy includes appearances in three FIFA World Cups (2002, 2006, and 2010) and four CONCACAF Gold Cup titles. He also played a pivotal role in the United States’ runner-up finish in the 2009 Confederations Cup. Known for his versatility and consistency, Donovan’s contributions shaped the trajectory of soccer in the United States.



“Donovan’s ability to create opportunities and change games is unmatched in American soccer history,”&nbsp;noted analysts when reflecting on his influence. For the Argentine superstar to tie this record highlights his enduring brilliance on the global stage and underscores his ability to impact games beyond scoring goals.



<h2>When can Messi break Donovan’s record?</h2>



This milestone is another chapter in Messi’s unparalleled journey with Argentina. Since making his international debut in 2005, Messi has built a record-breaking career. He is Argentina’s all-time top scorer, assist provider and appearance leader. Among his accolades are becoming the leading scorer in South American qualifiers (34 goals) and setting the record for the most matches played in FIFA World Cup history (26).



Messi’s 58 assists span nearly two decades, featuring crucial contributions in World Cup qualifiers, Copa America tournaments, and the World Cup. Iconic moments include his pass to Nahuel Molina in the 2022 World Cup quarterfinals against the Netherlands and his mesmerizing setup for Julian Alvarez in the semifinals against Croatia.



With Argentina set to face Uruguay and Brazil in the World Cup Qualifiers in March 2025, the Inter Miami captain has the opportunity to surpass Donovan and claim the record outright. His focus remains on guiding Lionel Scaloni’s side to another successful campaign and maintaining their dominance atop the CONMEBOL standings.

Lionel Messi ties USMNT legend Landon Donovan's historic record: When can Argentina hero become player with most international assists?

Lionel Messi ties USMNT legend Landon Donovan's historic record: When can Argentina hero become player with most international assists? - World Soccer Talk

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Landon Donovan, a legend in American soccer, has expressed his desire to one day manage either the USMNT or USWNT. The 42-year-old, who recently became <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/landon-donovan-lands-new-job-as-nwsl-giants-interim-coach/">interim coach for the NWSL’s San Diego Wave</a>, is just beginning his managerial career. However, he already holds bold ambitions for the future. His passion for coaching and commitment to U.S. Soccer has made his name synonymous with leadership aspirations, particularly for the national teams.



<h2>What does Landon Donovan think of possible USMNT future?</h2>



Donovan’s coaching career took an unexpected turn when the San Diego Wave appointed him as their interim manager. While this move <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/uswnt-star-raises-concerns-about-wave-hiring-donovan/">surprised many</a>, it marked Donovan’s return to the sidelines after nearly two years away from coaching. His previous experience came at the USL Championship level with the now-defunct San Diego Loyal. There, he gained valuable insight but remained somewhat under the radar.



In a conversation with fellow former <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/when-did-the-usmnt-play-its-very-first-game/">USMNT</a> player Alexi Lalas on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IAHHkFHRw1Q" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">“State of the Union” podcast,</a> Donovan opened up about his coaching ambitions and what leading the Wave means to him. “I would [like to coach the USMNT or <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/uswnt-tv-schedule/">USWNT</a>]. That’s a long way down the road, but I really do enjoy coaching,” Donovan said. He acknowledged the transient nature of coaching careers, where managers are often hired only to be fired after short stints. “Right now, in my life, I don’t want to do that to my family. If that opportunity comes, I would very much be open to it,” he explained.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240905_WST_526911_Donovan-USWNT-1200x675_33810bcb.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-526955" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Donovan-USWNT-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Donovan-USWNT-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Donovan-USWNT-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Donovan-USWNT-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/09/Donovan-USWNT.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



For now, the 42-year-old is content with his role at the San Diego Wave. The team’s location and community involvement make it a perfect fit for his personal and professional life. 



“Wave is right in my backyard, it’s a community that I love and love representing,” Donovan said. 



However, his long-term vision undoubtedly includes higher-profile positions, such as leading the national teams on the world stage.



<h2>Skepticism over USMNT’s coaching choices</h2>



While Donovan is eager to see the American national teams succeed, he has voiced skepticism over the U.S. Men’s National Team’s recent hiring decisions. M<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/what-teams-did-mauricio-pochettino-coach-previously/">auricio Pochettino</a> will most likely take charge of the USMNT, but Donovan remains cautious about how the Argentine coach will fit into the team’s dynamics.



“I’m cautiously optimistic,” Donovan added, “We have seen over the last decade-plus—a big name means nothing.” While the ex-striker holds Pochettino in high regard, he is concerned that the success of the team will depend on much more than just having a prominent manager on the sidelines. “I think [Pochettino] is a very good manager, but we just don’t know how that’s all going to gel together,” he added.



Donovan’s comments reflect a broader theme in international soccer, where big-name coaches do not always guarantee success. He has seen both high-profile managers succeed and struggle during his playing career, which has led him to adopt a more pragmatic view of the situation.



Although Lalas floated the idea that Pochettino could invite Donovan to join his coaching staff, the 42-year-old is focused on his current role with the San Diego Wave. He admitted that while he’s intrigued by the idea of contributing to the USMNT, he first wants to refine his tactical approach and gain more experience before taking on such a high-profile position. “Right now, I’m happy to be at San Diego Wave,” he stated. His immediate goal is to help the California-based club bounce back after a challenging start to the season.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

Donovan open to idea of taking over USMNT and USWNT

Landon Donovan, a legend in American soccer, has expressed his desire to one day manage either the USMNT or USWNT.

Landon Donovan, a legendary figure of US soccer, has embarked on a new journey as the interim head coach of the National Women’s Soccer League team, San Diego Wave. 



This marks <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/2022/07/08/best-soccer-player-seen-in-person/">Donovan</a>‘s first foray into coaching women’s soccer, a significant shift in his illustrious career.



Donovan’s appointment as the interim head coach for the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/san-diego-wave-tv-schedule/">San Diego Wave</a> comes at a crucial juncture for the team. 



The Wave, currently sitting 10th in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nwsl-tv-schedule-and-streaming-links/">NWSL</a> standings with 15 points from 16 matches, need a turnaround. Despite having players like Jaedyn Shaw and Naomi Girma on the roster, the team has underperformed this season. 



It only led to the firing of coach Casey Stoney in June.



Stoney, a former <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/england-national-team-tv-schedule/">England</a> international, had been instrumental in the Wave’s early success; leading them to a third-place finish in their debut season and securing the NWSL Shield in 2023. 



But her abrupt departure at the beginning of the 2024 season followed a losing sequence of seven games; thus the squad was left looking for stability.



Paul Buckle, who served as the interim coach following Stoney’s exit, struggled to reverse the team’s fortunes. Under Buckle, the Wave failed to advance beyond the group stage in the inaugural NWSL x Liga MX Femenil Summer Cup. 



To make matters worse, the continued to slide in the league standings. As Buckle returns to his personal commitments, the club has turned to Donovan; hoping his experience and leadership can guide the team through the remainder of the season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="436" height="334" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240818_WST_523419_image-21_30b3ccf7.webp&amp;width=436&amp;height=334" alt="" class="wp-image-523442" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/image-21.png 436w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/08/image-21-300x230.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 436px) 100vw, 436px"></figure><figcaption>Landon Donovan has taken his first training session.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What did Wave say about Donovan?</h2>



Landon Donovan is <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/u-s-world-cup-chances-20210902-CMS-342277.html">no stranger to the soccer scene in San Diego</a>. Before joining the Wave, he served as the Executive Vice President of Soccer Operations for the San Diego Loyal. They are a USL Championship club he co-founded. 



Donovan was also the first head coach of the Loyal; leading them to three consecutive playoff appearances from 2021 to 2023. 



Despite his success with the Loyal, the club folded after the 2023 season due to challenges in securing a permanent stadium and the expansion of MLS into San Diego.



During his tenure with the Loyal, the 42-year-old amassed a 39-17-29 record; demonstrating his ability to lead and develop a competitive team. 



“We are thrilled to have Landon [Donovan] join the club and lead the team for the remainder of the season”, <a href="https://sandiegowavefc.com/san-diego-wave-fc-names-landon-donovan-interim-head-coach/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">said Wave FC sporting director and general manager Camille Ashton</a>. “Landon’s level of knowledge, understanding, and experience as both a player and a coach, provides us with a leader that can help guide this club to where we want to be—in a playoff position and competing for a championship.”



Donovan’s deep ties to San Diego and his passion for growing the sport in the city make him a natural fit for the Wave. 



His player-first mentality and commitment to the community align with the club’s values and aspirations. Though he may initially seem ready for the post, doubts may arise about his expertise in women’s sports.



<h2>What can Donovan bring in to Wave?</h2>



Donovan steps into a challenging situation with the San Diego Wave. The team once held championship ambitions. 



Now they find themselves in a battle to climb out of the lower ranks of the NWSL standings. With only a few matches left in the regular season and the CONCACAF W Champions Cup on the horizon, Donovan has little time to make an impact.



Despite the obstacles, Donovan is optimistic about the opportunity. “Landon’s passion for this city and growing the game, along with having a player-first mentality, make him a natural fit for this club”, Ashton emphasized. 



The Wave’s upcoming match against Angel City on August 24 will be Donovan’s first test as head coach. It will offer a glimpse into how he plans to steer the team forward.



The retired forward’s connection to the San Diego soccer community and his success with the Loyal will be key assets as he navigates this new role. However, the transition from men’s to women’s soccer is not without its challenges, and Donovan will need to adapt to the nuances of the NWSL quickly.



Photo credit: IMAGO / Agencia-MexSport

Landon Donovan lands new job as NWSL giants interim coach

Landon Donovan, a legendary figure of US soccer, has embarked on a new journey as the interim head coach of the NWSL team, San Diego Wave.

Landon Donovan lands new job as NWSL giants interim coach - World Soccer Talk

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