Lionel Messi etched his name deeper into football history on Monday, scoring twice to become the FIFA World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer as Argentina secured a 2-0 victory over Austria and booked their place in the knockout rounds of the 2026 World Cup.
According to AFP, Messi struck in the 38th minute and added a second deep into stoppage time in Arlington, Texas, taking his World Cup tally to 18 goals. The achievement moved the Argentina captain beyond former Germany striker Miroslav Klose, whose record of 16 goals had previously been matched by Messi.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner had the chance to break the record early in the match but dragged a penalty wide after eight minutes. He recovered to open the scoring seven minutes before half-time, calmly finishing beyond Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.
Messi completed his brace in the fifth minute of added time, capping another influential performance after his hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 opening victory over Algeria. The goals brought his tournament total to five.
The result guarantees Argentina a place in the last 32, while they could also secure top spot in Group J depending on the outcome of Jordan’s clash with Algeria.
Speaking after the match, Messi said the victory was crucial for the team’s progress.
“I’m very happy with the victory. It was hugely important, tough, and hard-fought, and it gives us peace of mind for what’s ahead.”
Mbappe Nears Milestone
Messi’s nearest challenger among active players is Kylian Mbappé, who will make his 100th appearance for France against Iraq.
The French forward, who has scored 14 World Cup goals, remains four behind Messi’s new record. Mbappé recently netted twice in France’s opening 3-1 victory over Senegal and is level with German legend Gerd Müller on the World Cup scoring chart.
France can also secure qualification for the knockout stage with victory over Iraq, while Norway could progress if they defeat Senegal and France claim all three points.
Other World Cup Results
Elsewhere, Spain revived their campaign with a commanding 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia, while World Cup debutants Cape Verde continued their impressive run by holding Uruguay to a 2-2 draw.
Belgium remain without a win after a goalless draw against Iran in Group G. Egypt moved to the top of the group with a historic 3-1 comeback victory over New Zealand, securing the country’s first-ever World Cup win.
Germany, meanwhile, suffered a setback after defender Nico Schlotterbeck was ruled out of the tournament with ankle ligament damage sustained in the team’s win over Ivory Coast.
