Buenos Aires: Lionel Messi added another remarkable chapter to his legendary career on Sunday as he became the highest scoring player in FIFA World Cup history, helping Argentina secure a 2 0 victory over Austria in their second Group J match of the 2026 World Cup.
The Argentina captain endured an early setback when he missed a penalty in the first half. Austria's goalkeeper produced an excellent save to deny the 39 year old forward from the spot, briefly silencing Argentine supporters who had hoped to witness another historic moment from their star player.
However, Messi quickly showed why he is regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Instead of allowing the missed opportunity to affect his performance, he responded in style by scoring Argentina's opening goal later in the first half. The goal not only put his team ahead but also saw him break one of the most prestigious records in international football.
Before the match, Messi was tied with German great Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals. His strike against Austria took him to 17 goals, making him the outright highest scorer in men's World Cup history. The achievement was celebrated by fans around the world who have followed Messi's extraordinary journey over the past two decades.
Messi was not finished yet. He added a second goal later in the game to secure Argentina's victory and increase his World Cup tally to 18 goals. The result strengthened Argentina's position in Group J and moved the defending champions closer to qualification for the knockout stages.
The latest milestone comes just days after another historic performance from Messi. In Argentina's opening match against Algeria, he scored a hat trick in a 3 0 victory. That performance allowed him to equal Klose's record and also made him the first male player to appear in six FIFA World Cups. He also became the oldest player to score a World Cup hat trick.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised Messi's influence on the team and said his ability to continue performing at the highest level remains extraordinary. Scaloni noted that while records are important, Messi's leadership and impact on younger players have been equally valuable during the tournament.
Football experts have described Messi's latest achievement as one of the greatest records in the sport. The Argentine star has consistently delivered on the biggest stage throughout his career and continues to inspire supporters despite approaching his 39th birthday.
The record breaking goal has also reignited discussions about Messi's place among football's all time greats. Having already won the World Cup, multiple Ballon d'Or awards and numerous club trophies, he continues to add new accomplishments to an already unmatched career.
Argentina's strong start to the tournament has increased expectations that the defending champions could make another deep run in the competition. With Messi leading the attack and already among the tournament's top scorers, the South American side looks well placed to challenge for another World Cup title.
For Messi, the night in Austria was another reminder that even after years of success, he continues to find new ways to make history. A missed penalty could have been the story of the evening, but instead it became the beginning of yet another unforgettable milestone in one of football's greatest careers.