Messi Becomes World Cup's All-Time Top Scorer in Argentina Win

Lionel Messi etched his name into World Cup history by becoming the tournament's all-time leading scorer, netting both goals in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria in Dallas, Texas. The win secured the holders' place in the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup.

Record-Breaking Performance

Messi's brace took his World Cup tally to 18 goals, surpassing Germany's Miroslav Klose (16) as the men's all-time leading scorer. His second goal also moved him past Marta's 17 goals in the women's tournament, setting a new overall record. The Inter Miami playmaker scored in the 38th and 95th minutes, despite missing an earlier penalty in the eighth minute.

“Beyond anything I’m so happy for the win,” Messi said. “It was huge, tough and difficult. It would allow us to be relaxed to what’s ahead. All matches in this World Cup are very even, very intense. I’m enjoying this moment and craving to enjoy with my teammates.”

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Klose's Tribute

Miroslav Klose, the previous record holder, paid tribute to Messi. “Lionel Messi is the best footballer of all time for me! Congratulations, champion!” Klose told the Süddeutsche Zeitung.

Messi, who will celebrate his 39th birthday on Wednesday, has now scored four goals in two matches at the 2026 finals, adding to his hat-trick against Algeria in the opening game.

Penalty Miss and Redemption

Messi squandered an early chance to break the record from the penalty spot after Lautaro Martinez was fouled by Stefan Posch and Xaver Schlager. Referee Amin Omar reviewed the incident on the pitchside monitor before awarding the penalty, which Messi dragged wide. It was his third World Cup penalty miss, following misses against Iceland in 2018 and Poland in 2022.

“There were moments when I was really angry about missing the penalty, but I was able to make up for it,” said Messi.

Match Details

David Alaba twice thwarted Messi before the opener, poking the ball away as he shaped to shoot and blocking a goal-bound strike. However, Austria's defence could not prevent Argentina's breakthrough. Thiago Almada created the first goal, driving towards the area and laying off to Facundo Medina on the left. After Almada let the return pass roll through his legs, an unmarked Messi calmly slotted home.

In the second half, Emi Martinez pushed Marcel Sabitzer's free-kick to safety after Cristian Romero conceded a needless foul on the edge of the box. Michael Gregoritsch headed a looping effort over the bar for Austria, who struggled to create clear chances.

Argentina's second goal came moments before the final whistle. Julian Alvarez's initial shot was saved by Alexander Schlager, but the rebound fell to Messi. After his first shot was blocked, he drove in a low strike from six yards to seal the win.