Perisic equals Messi with assists in four consecutive World Cups, 37-year-old Croatian legend breaks record
Provided an assist in the opening game of the 2026 World Cup. Ivan Perisic is the second person in history to accomplish this feat after Lionel Messi. Although Croatia lost 2-4 to England, their presence was outstanding.
37-year-old Croatian forward Ivan Perisic recorded an assist in the opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With this, Perisic became the second player in history, after Lionel Messi, to record an assist in four consecutive World Cups. In the match against England in the 2026 tournament (2-4 loss), Perisic headed the second ball to Petar Moussa in stoppage time of the first half.
With this assist, Croatia got one point back. This play once again demonstrated Perisic's experience and acumen. Although the match ended in Croatia's defeat, Perisic's presence was outstanding.
Looking at the record details, Perisic became only the second player in history to record an assist in a World Cup since 1966. The first, Messi, recorded assists in five tournaments from 2006 to 2022. Perisic achieved this in four tournaments from 2014 to 2026.
In particular, achieving this record at the age of 37 symbolizes the length and stability of his career. Perisic's assists show his soccer IQ and presence on the field, which is a great inspiration for young players. His playing style continues to evolve as he ages.
In particular, his ability to make calm judgments and create chances in important moments of games has become an indispensable weapon for the team. Furthermore, Perisic's record has a special meaning in the history of Croatian football. His performance is proof of how much Croatia has grown on the international stage and is a goal for the next generation of players to aspire to.
Having a player like Perisic only increases expectations for Croatia's future. The Croatian national team coach commented after the game, ``Perisic is an essential part of the team. '' What's next: Perišić's record represents a golden generation of Croatian football.
His play will be the focus of attention in the next match and beyond. In addition, the Croatian national team will continue to fight to advance to the group stage. All eyes will be on whether Perisic's record will be further improved in this tournament, or whether he will only equal Messi's record. Read at Soccer King
Why this matters
Perišić's record is a milestone in the golden generation of Croatian football. Even at the age of 37, he was able to provide assists in four consecutive World Cup tournaments, proving once again the longevity and consistency of his career. His historic record, which rivals Messi's, cements his status as a legend.
Frequently asked
How many assists did Perisic record in the World Cup?
The record was recorded in the opening game of the 2026 tournament. With this, Perisic became the second player in history, after Lionel Messi, to record an assist in four consecutive World Cups.
I would like to know the details of this assist.
Perisic headed the second ball to Petar Moussa in stoppage time in the first half of the 2026 World Cup match against England. With this assist, Croatia got one point back.
How did Croatia do in the match?
Croatia lost to England 2-4. Perisic played the entire game, but the team got off to a losing start.
How many goals has Perisic scored in the World Cup so far?
According to official records, Perisic has scored six goals in total at the World Cup. He has scored in four consecutive tournaments since the 2014 Brazil tournament.
Which club does Perisic belong to?
At the start of the 2026 World Cup, he belonged to PSV Eindhoven. He will also play a key role in the Croatian national team.
How do Messi and Perisic's World Cup assist records compare?
Messi recorded assists in five tournaments from 2006 to 2022. Perisic achieved this in four tournaments from 2014 to 2026. Although Messi has achieved this feat over a longer period of time, Perisic achieved this feat at the advanced age of 37.
