Messi Breaks World Cup Goals Record as Argentina Reach Last 32
Lionel Messi made World Cup history on Monday night after scoring twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria to become the tournament’s all-time leading goalscorer.
The Argentina captain scored his 17th and 18th World Cup goals in the Group J clash in Dallas, moving ahead of former Germany striker Miroslav Klose, who scored 16 goals between 2002 and 2014.
Messi, who will celebrate his 39th birthday on Wednesday, reached the landmark despite missing an early penalty. The veteran forward sent his spot-kick wide after Austria defender Stefan Posch fouled Lautaro Martinez inside the penalty area in the eighth minute.
The missed chance did not affect Messi’s confidence as he opened the scoring in the 38th minute. Thiago Almada cleverly allowed Facundo Medina’s low cross to run through his legs, and Messi swept a first-time shot into the net from inside the box.
Argentina continued to control the game after the break, although Austria came close to equalising. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez produced an excellent save to deny Marcel Sabitzer’s powerful free-kick.
Messi sealed the victory deep into stoppage time when he fired home from a tight angle past two Austrian defenders to complete his historic double.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has now scored five goals in two matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, having netted a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 win over Algeria in their opening group match. He is currently the tournament’s leading scorer.
The victory takes Argentina to six points and secures their place in the last 32. The defending champions join Mexico, the United States and Germany among the teams that have already qualified for the knockout stage.
Argentina will complete their Group J campaign against Jordan on June 28, while Austria face Algeria in their final group match on the same day.
