Lionel Messi created another piece of football history as he scored twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The win secured Argentina’s place in the last 32 and saw Messi become the highest scorer in World Cup history.
The Argentina captain, who turns 39 on Wednesday, scored his 17th and 18th World Cup goals to move ahead of former Germany striker Miroslav Klose, who finished his World Cup career with 16 goals between 2002 and 2014.
Messi Breaks Record in Dallas
Messi reached the landmark in the 38th minute of the Group J clash in Dallas. The move started when Facundo Medina delivered a low cross into the box. Thiago Almada cleverly allowed the ball to run through his legs, creating space for Messi.
The veteran forward made no mistake and fired a first-time shot into the net from inside the penalty area to give Argentina the lead.
Messi completed the scoring deep into stoppage time. After Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager denied Julian Alvarez, the loose ball fell to Messi. He squeezed a shot through two defenders from a tight angle to seal the victory and extend his record.
Missed Penalty Could Not Stop Historic Night
Messi had the chance to break the record much earlier. Argentina received a penalty after just eight minutes when Austrian defender Stefan Posch fouled Lautaro Martinez inside the box. Another challenge from Xaver Schlager also contributed to the decision.
However, Messi sent the penalty wide of the post. The miss briefly delayed his record-breaking moment, but he soon made amends with two excellent finishes.
Messi Leads Golden Boot Race
The double took Messi's tally to five goals in just two matches at the 2026 World Cup. He had already scored a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening 3-0 victory over Algeria.
As a result, he now sits alone at the top of the tournament’s scoring chart.
Austria Threaten But Martinez Stands Firm
Austria, coached by former Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick, created chances and nearly found an equaliser before Messi’s second goal.
Their best opportunity came when Marcel Sabitzer, making his 100th appearance for Austria, struck a powerful free-kick. But Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez reacted brilliantly and pushed the effort away.
Argentina Advance to Knockout Stage
The victory moved Argentina to six points from two matches and guaranteed their place in the last 32. The defending champions joined Mexico, United States and Germany among the teams that have already secured qualification.
Argentina will officially win Group J if Jordan fail to defeat Algeria later on Tuesday. Austria remain in the race for qualification with three points after winning their opening match against Jordan.
Messi Continues to Defy Age
Messi's latest achievement adds another chapter to his remarkable career. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner continues to perform at the highest level despite nearing his 39th birthday. Remarkably, 12 of his 18 World Cup goals have come after turning 35.
He also became only the third player in World Cup history to score in six consecutive tournament matches. The other two players to achieve that feat were Just Fontaine in 1958 and Jairzinho in 1970.
A World Cup Journey Spanning Two Decades
Messi scored his first World Cup goal in 2006 against Serbia and Montenegro when he was just 18 years old. He failed to score during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa but returned strongly in 2014 with four goals, including a brace against Nigeria.
He added one goal in the 2018 tournament and then inspired Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022. During that campaign, he scored seven times, including two goals in the dramatic final against France, which Argentina won on penalties after a 3-3 draw.
Before the start of the 2026 World Cup, Messi trailed Klose by three goals. His hat-trick against Algeria brought him level with the German legend, and his double against Austria pushed him into first place.
The goals also increased Messi’s international tally to 122 goals in 201 appearances for Argentina.
Mbappe Still Chasing the Record
While Messi now stands alone at the top of the World Cup scoring charts, Kylian Mbappe remains within striking distance. The French star, still only 27, has already scored 15 World Cup goals and moved into joint third place after finding the net against Iraq on Monday.
However, Messi has the chance to extend his record further when Argentina face Jordan in their final group-stage match on June 28 before the knockout rounds begin.
What Comes Next?
Argentina will conclude their Group J campaign against Jordan on June 28, while Austria will face Algeria at the same time. Both matches will play a key role in deciding the final group standings and knockout-stage positions.