Messi vs Maradona: A statistical comparison of their careers with Argentina

Messi has 13 World Cup goals compared to Maradonas eight. In terms of overall goals, Maradona has 34 goals for his country, while Messi has scored 97 goals.

(From L-R): Lionel Messi and Diego Maradona with the World Cup trophy.Photo Credit: GETTY IMAGES

Messi has 13 World Cup goals compared to Maradonas eight. In terms of overall goals, Maradona has 34 goals for his country, while Messi has scored 97 goals.

Lionel Messi and his Argentina team beat France 4-2 on penalties in the FIFA World Cup final as Argentina lifted its third World Cup title.

There has been an eternal debate on who has a greater legacy for Argentina - Lionel Messi or Diego Armando Maradona.

In terms of pure numbers, Messi always enjoyed a significant lead over Maradona, but the absence of a World Cup title left a huge void in Messis legacy for his country.

With the World Cup trophy in his kitty, that void has been filled. Without drawing any conclusions, lets have a look at Messi and Maradonas stats for Argentina.

In terms of overall stats, Messi has 172 appearances compared to Maradonas 91. In World Cups, Maradona has 21 appearances compared to Messis 26.

Messi surpassed Lothar Matthaus in the number of matches played in the tournament, with the German World Cup winner previously having the record with 25 matches.

Messi has 13 World Cup goals compared to Maradonas eight. In terms of overall goals, Maradona has 34 goals for his country, while Messi has scored 97 goals.

Following is a complete breakdown of the stats.

Lionel Messi vs Diego Maradona: Comparison of international stats

Maradona overall stats for Argentina

Maradona World Cup stats for Argentina

Messi World Cup stats for Argentina