Lionel Messi etched his name deeper into football history after becoming the outright highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, scoring twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Argentina captain entered the match tied with Germany legend Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals, having equalled the record with a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria earlier in the tournament. Messi’s brace against Austria took his tally to 18 goals, moving him clear at the top of the all-time World Cup scoring chart.
The 38-year-old, featuring in his record-equalling sixth World Cup, endured a frustrating start after missing a penalty inside the opening 10 minutes. Despite squandering several chances, the Lionel Messi responded in typical fashion, delivering when it mattered most to guide the defending champions into the knockout stages.
Messi’s first goal came from a well-worked team move before he calmly slotted home from close range in added time after Julián Álvarez’s effort was blocked. The brace also took his tally at the 2026 tournament to five goals in just two matches.
Argentina’s victory secured their place in the Round of 32 with a game to spare, maintaining a perfect start to their title defence. Lionel Scaloni’s side will face Jordan in their final Group J fixture, with Messi having another opportunity to extend his record.
Messi’s latest achievement has also put him ahead of several World Cup greats, including Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazário and Klose. Meanwhile, France captain Kylian Mbappé remains among the closest active challengers. Mbappe has 14 World Cup goals and could continue his pursuit of Messi’s newly established mark as the tournament progresses.
Having already won the World Cup in 2022, Messi continues to rewrite football history, adding yet another landmark achievement to a career widely regarded as one of the greatest the sport has ever seen.
