The FIFA World Cup is the pinnacle of international football. While goals often steal the spotlight, assists are equally crucial. Assists are the final passes that lead to goals, showcasing a player’s vision and teamwork. In this article, we’ll explore the players with the most assists in FIFA World Cup history. We’ll break down their contributions and highlight why assists are so important.
What is an Assist?
An assist is a pass or action that directly leads to a goal. It’s like setting up a perfect shot in basketball or a great pass in hockey. In football, assists can come from crosses, through balls, or even simple passes. They require precision, timing, and a deep understanding of the game.
Top Players with the Most Assists
1. Pelé Assists
Pelé, the Brazilian legend, holds the record for the most assists in World Cup history with 8 assists. He played in four World Cups from 1958 to 1970, winning three of them. Pelé’s ability to create scoring opportunities was unmatched. His vision and skill made him a complete player, not just a goal scorer.
- Total Assists: Pelé provided 8 assists (14 matches) in World Cup matches.
- Most Assists in a Single World Cup: He holds the record for the most assists in a single World Cup edition, with 6 assists in the 1970 tournament.
- Assists in World Cup Finals: Pelé is the only player with three assists in World Cup finals, with one assist in 1958 and two in 1970.
- 1958 World Cup: Pelé made his World Cup debut and provided his first assist in the final against Sweden.
- 1962 World Cup: He added more assists during this tournament, contributing to Brazil’s successful campaign.
- 1970 World Cup: Pelé’s playmaking was exceptional, with 6 assists, including two in the final against Italy.
Pelé’s vision and ability to set up goals were as remarkable as his goal-scoring ability, making him a legendary figure in World Cup history.
2. Lionel Messi
Lionel Messi, one of the greatest players ever, has 8 assists in World Cup history. Messi’s dribbling and passing skills are extraordinary. He has played in five World Cups, from 2006 to 2022. Messi’s assists often come from his ability to draw defenders and then find his teammates in perfect positions.
- First Player to Assist in Five World Cups: Messi is the only player to have provided assists in five different World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022).
- Total Assists: He has 8 assists in World Cup matches.
- 2006 World Cup: Messi made his World Cup debut and provided his first assist against Serbia and Montenegro.
- 2010 World Cup: He added another assist during the tournament.
- 2014 World Cup: Messi provided one assist, helping Argentina reach the final.
- 2018 World Cup: He contributed two assists in the tournament.
- 2022 World Cup: Messi provided three assists, tying for the most assists in the tournament.
- Knockout Phase Record: Messi shares the record for the most assists in the knockout phase of the World Cup with 6 assists, tied with Pelé.
Messi’s ability to create opportunities for his teammates has been a crucial part of his game, showcasing his vision and playmaking skills on the world stage.
3. Diego Maradona
Diego Maradona, another Argentine legend, also has 8 assists in World Cup history. Maradona’s most famous assist came in the 1986 World Cup quarter-final against England, known as the “Hand of God” game. His vision and creativity were key to Argentina’s success in that tournament.
4. Pierre Littbarski
Pierre Littbarski from Germany has 7 assists in World Cup history. He played in three World Cups from 1982 to 1990. Littbarski was known for his dribbling and crossing abilities. His assists were crucial in Germany’s 1990 World Cup victory.
5. Grzegorz Lato
Grzegorz Lato from Poland also has 7 assists. He played in three World Cups from 1974 to 1982. Lato was a versatile player, capable of scoring and assisting. His assists helped Poland achieve third place in the 1974 World Cup.
Importance of Assists
Assists are vital in football because they create goal-scoring opportunities. A great assist can break down even the toughest defenses. Players who provide assists often have excellent vision and understanding of the game. They know when and where to pass the ball to maximize their team’s scoring chances.
Total Assists in FIFA World Cup History
| Player | Assists | Matches Played | Tournaments | Most Assists in One Edition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pelé | 8 | 14 | 4 (1958–1970) | 6 (1970) |
| Messi | 8 | 26 | 5 (2006–2022) | 3 (2022) |
| Maradona | 8 | 21 | 4 (1982–1994) | 5 (1986) |
| Pierre Littbarski | 7 | 18 | 3 (1982–1990) | 5 (1982) |
| Grzegorz Lato | 7 | 20 | 3 (1974–1982) | 3 (1982) |
| Zidane | 3 | 12 | 3 (1998–2006) | 2 (2006) |
| Xavi | 2 | 15 | 4 (2002–2014) | 2 (2010) |
Famous Assists in World Cup History
Pelé’s Assist in the 1970 Final
In the 1970 World Cup final, Pelé provided a memorable assist to Carlos Alberto. Pelé’s perfectly timed pass allowed Alberto to score one of the greatest goals in World Cup history. This assisted in showcasing Pelé’s vision and unselfish play.
Maradona’s Assist in 1986
Maradona’s assist to Jorge Burruchaga in the 1986 World Cup final was crucial. It secured Argentina’s victory over West Germany. Maradona’s dribble and precise pass highlighted his genius on the field.
Messi’s Assist in 2014
In the 2014 World Cup, Messi’s assist to Ángel Di María against Switzerland was vital. Messi’s dribble and pass in extra time helped Argentina advance to the quarter-finals. This assist demonstrated Messi’s ability to perform under pressure.
Conclusion
Assists are the soul of football’s artistry. Assists demand not only skill and vision but also deep trust and timing. Icons like Pelé, Messi, and Maradona proved that the perfect pass can be just as iconic as the goal itself. Their selfless brilliance reshaped matches and etched unforgettable moments into World Cup lore. Appreciating assists shows us the true beauty of football—where teamwork and skill come together.