Lionel Messi has done it again.
The Argentina captain has become the all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history after scoring twice in his side’s 2-0 victory over Austria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Coming into the match, Messi was level with the previous scoring record and needed just one goal to move into first place on his own. The 38-year-old didn’t stop at one.
He opened the scoring in the 38th minute, calmly finishing off a slick Argentine move to put the defending champions ahead. Then, deep into stoppage time, he struck again to wrap up the victory and cap off another unforgettable night in his extraordinary career.
The brace took Messi’s World Cup tally to 18 goals, moving him ahead of Germany legend Miroslav Klose, who had held the men’s record with 16 goals.
A Record Nearly Two Decades in the Making
Messi’s latest milestone didn’t happen overnight.
The Argentine superstar made his World Cup debut in 2006 and has now appeared in a record six editions of football’s biggest tournament. Over the years, he has delivered countless memorable moments, scoring crucial goals and inspiring Argentina on the sport’s grandest stage.
What’s even more remarkable is that he’s still producing at the highest level just days before his 39th birthday.
Against Austria, Messi displayed the qualities that have defined his career from the beginning. His movement was sharp. His decision-making was flawless. And when history called, he answered once again.
Argentina Through to the Knockout Stage
Messi’s historic performance wasn’t just about individual glory.
Argentina’s victory over Austria secured their place in the knockout rounds with a game to spare, keeping alive their hopes of retaining the World Cup title they won four years ago.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has been at the heart of Argentina’s campaign, scoring all five of the team’s goals so far and extending his scoring streak to six consecutive World Cup matches.
As the tournament progresses, the defending champions will continue to rely on their captain’s leadership, experience and ability to deliver on the biggest occasions.
Another Record for Football’s Greatest Stage
For years, football fans have debated where Lionel Messi ranks among the greatest players to ever play the game.
Moments like these only strengthen his case.
From lifting the World Cup trophy to becoming the tournament’s all-time leading scorer, Messi continues to achieve feats that once seemed almost impossible.
On a night filled with expectation and history, the Argentine icon did what he has done throughout his legendary career rise to the occasion.
And once again, Lionel Messi left the football world in awe.
