Football has witnessed another unforgettable chapter, and once again it belongs to Lionel Messi.

The Argentina captain etched his name even deeper into football history after breaking the all-time FIFA World Cup goals record during Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria in the FIFA World Cup 2026. At 38 years old, Messi delivered another masterclass, scoring twice to become the highest-scoring player in World Cup history.

The remarkable achievement adds another legendary milestone to a career already filled with records, trophies, and unforgettable moments.

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Messi Surpasses World Cup Legends

Heading into the match, Lionel Messi had already matched the previous record with his hat-trick against Algeria earlier in the tournament. Against Austria, the Argentine superstar needed just one more goal to move ahead of the previous benchmark.

After missing a first-half penalty, many wondered whether the record would have to wait. Instead, Lionel Messi responded in trademark fashion.

He opened the scoring before adding another goal in stoppage time, taking his World Cup tally to 18 goals, officially becoming the highest scorer in FIFA World Cup history across both the men’s and women’s tournaments. He moved beyond the previous mark of 17 held by Brazilian legend Marta while also surpassing the men’s record previously held by Miroslav Klose.

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A Night of Records

Lionel Messi’s incredible performance added several milestones to his already unmatched résumé.

Historic achievements

• Most goals in FIFA World Cup history
• First player to score in six consecutive World Cup matches
• Five goals already in the 2026 World Cup
• Argentina qualified for the knockout stage with one group game remaining

These numbers further strengthen Messi’s legacy as arguably the greatest player the sport has ever seen.

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Argentina Continue Perfect World Cup Campaign

Argentina looked composed throughout the contest despite Austria making life difficult in the opening stages.

Lionel Messi’s first goal settled the nerves before his second strike sealed the victory in front of a packed crowd in Dallas.

The reigning world champions now have two wins from two matches and have comfortably booked their place in the knockout rounds. Manager Lionel Scaloni praised Messi’s influence after the match, describing his captain as the player who continues to inspire everyone around him.

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Football World Reacts to Messi’s Latest Masterpiece

As expected, social media exploded after Lionel Messi broke yet another record.

Former Germany striker Miroslav Klose, whose men’s World Cup scoring record had stood for more than a decade, congratulated Messi on the historic achievement and described him as “the best footballer of all time.” Football fans, former players, and pundits across the globe hailed the Argentine icon for continuing to redefine greatness at nearly 39 years of age.

Many supporters also pointed to the incredible longevity Messi has shown, competing at the highest level in his sixth World Cup while continuing to dominate against the world’s best teams.

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Can Messi Extend the Record?

With Argentina already through to the knockout stage, Messi still has several matches left to increase his record.

Given his current form—five goals in just two games—the Inter Miami star could finish the tournament with an even more astonishing tally.

If Argentina continue their title defence, football fans may witness yet another historic World Cup run from one of the game’s greatest-ever players.

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Final Thoughts

Lionel Messi has spent nearly two decades rewriting football history, and his latest achievement may be one of the most remarkable yet.

By becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, the Argentine legend has once again demonstrated why he remains the benchmark for greatness. With Argentina still chasing another World Cup title, the story of Messi’s extraordinary career is far from over.

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