Lionel Messi Becomes World Cup’s All-Time Leading Scorer After Brace Against Austria

Lionel Messi Becomes World Cup’s All-Time Leading Scorer After Brace Against Austria

Lionel Messi has set a new FIFA World Cup scoring record after netting twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria, surpassing Miroslav Klose as the competition’s all-time leading goalscorer.

The Argentine captain entered the match level with the former Germany striker on 16 World Cup goals following his hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina’s opening group-stage fixture. His brace against Austria took his tally to 18 goals, moving him two clear of Klose at the top of the all-time scoring chart.

Messi’s record-breaking first goal arrived in the 39th minute when he produced a clinical left-footed finish to give the defending champions the lead in Arlington.

The 38-year-old then sealed the victory in stoppage time after Argentina launched a swift counterattack. Julián Álvarez initially saw his effort blocked, but Messi reacted quickest to convert the rebound and secure both the win and another piece of football history.

The two goals take Messi’s tally at the 2026 World Cup to five, strengthening his position among the tournament’s leading scorers.

Despite his historic achievement, the match did not begin smoothly for the Inter Miami forward. Messi missed a penalty inside the opening 10 minutes, sending his effort wide of the post, and also passed up several other opportunities before eventually finding the breakthrough.

Argentina’s victory secured qualification for the Round of 32 as they continue the defense of the title they won in Qatar four years ago. The South Americans will conclude their Group J campaign against Jordan on June 28.

Messi’s latest milestone adds to an already remarkable World Cup legacy. The tournament marks his sixth appearance on football’s biggest stage, equaling the record for the most World Cup participations by a player.

While Messi has now established himself as the competition’s leading goalscorer, the chase behind him remains active. France forward Kylian Mbappé currently sits on 14 World Cup goals and remains one of the players with an opportunity to climb further up the all-time rankings during the tournament.