Messi Becomes the World Cup's All-Time Leading Scorer

Lionel Messi has once again etched his name into football history, becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history during Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria in Group J of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Argentine captain surpassed the long-standing record of 16 World Cup goals previously held by former German striker Miroslav Klose. Messi reached the historic milestone late in the first half when he calmly finished past Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager with a first-time left-footed strike, scoring his 17th World Cup goal.

The record-breaking moment came after Messi had earlier seen a penalty saved, but the 38-year-old showed his trademark resilience by responding in spectacular fashion. He later sealed Argentina's victory in stoppage time, following up a shot from Julian Alvarez to score his second goal of the match and increase his World Cup tally to 18 goals.

The performance further strengthened Messi's incredible legacy on football's biggest stage. He now leads the scoring charts at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with five goals, having already netted a stunning hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina's opening match of the tournament.

Messi, who turns 39 on Wednesday, is appearing in a record-equalling sixth FIFA World Cup. His first World Cup goal came against Serbia and Montenegro during the 2006 tournament, and he has now scored in five different World Cups—another remarkable achievement in a career filled with records.

Before the tournament began, Miroslav Klose anticipated Messi breaking his record and expressed his admiration for the Argentine legend.

"Messi is simply Messi. I've always admired the way he solved problems and the way he carried himself as a person, even on the pitch," Klose said.

"I've always been a Messi fan, and now that he's standing in front of me, I have to say: that's not too bad either!"

With 18 World Cup goals and counting, Messi continues to redefine greatness and further cement his place as one of the most extraordinary players in football history.

World Cup All-Time Top Goalscorers

Lionel Messi (Argentina) – 18 goals Miroslav Klose (Germany) – 16 goals Ronaldo Nazário (Brazil) – 15 goals Gerd Müller (Germany) – 14 goals Just Fontaine (France) – 13 goals

As Argentina pursue another world title, the football world watches in awe as Lionel Messi continues to write history.