Messi Creates World Cup History with Record-Breaking 18th Goal
Argentina captain surpasses all previous men's and women's World Cup scorers as Albiceleste advance in World Cup 2026
Argentine superstar Lionel Messi has become the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history after scoring twice in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria in their Group J clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The 38-year-old forward broke the all-time record with Argentina's opening goal in the 38th minute at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Messi later added another goal in stoppage time to take his World Cup tally to 18 goals across six tournaments, surpassing the previous record of 16 goals held by Germany's Miroslav Klose.
With his latest achievement, Messi also overtook Brazilian legend Marta, who scored 17 goals in FIFA Women's World Cup competitions, making the Argentine captain the highest scorer in World Cup history across both the men's and women's tournaments.
Messi had already equalled Klose's record with a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina's opening match of the tournament. Despite missing a penalty against Austria, he finished the match with a brace and now leads the scoring charts at the 2026 World Cup with four goals.
Playing in his sixth World Cup since making his debut in 2006, Messi continues to defy age and expectations. The Inter Miami star now boasts 121 international goals in 201 appearances for Argentina and has become only the third player to score in six consecutive FIFA World Cups.
His remarkable performances have strengthened Argentina's hopes of defending their World Cup crown and becoming the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cup titles.
Argentina's victory over Austria secured their place in the Round of 16, with Messi once again delivering a historic performance on football's biggest stage.
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