Messi Breaks World Cup Goals Record In Argentina Clash With Austria

Lionel Messi is now the leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history after scoring a stunner in Argentina’s group-stage clash against Austria on Monday, June 22.

Lionel Messi scored in the 38th minute at Dallas Stadium, finishing first time from a Facundo Medina pass that flew into the bottom-left corner beyond Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.

The goal was Messi’s 17th in World Cup competition, moving him clear of former Germany striker Miroslav Klose, who held the previous record with 16. Messi had earlier missed a penalty but still found the net to claim the milestone.

The record-breaking strike came just days after the veteran forward netted a hat-trick against Algeria. Having featured in every World Cup since 2006, Messi has scored in all but one edition of the tournament, failing to find the net only in 2010. His seven-goal haul helped Argentina win the 2022 title, while he has already added four goals at the 2026 finals.

Messi’s latest achievement adds to an extraordinary list of records. He is Argentina’s all-time leading scorer with 122 international goals and also holds the record for the most World Cup appearances, having played 27 matches at the tournament.

The all-time World Cup scoring chart now sees Messi at the top with 17 goals, ahead of Klose on 16, Brazil legend Ronaldo on 15, while France star Kylian Mbappé and Germany great Gerd Müller are tied on 14.

While Messi now stands alone at the summit, Mbappé remains a serious contender to challenge the mark in the ongoing tournament. The French forward has already scored 14 World Cup goals in just 15 matches and continues to close the gap.