Lionel Messi scored twice against Austria to become the highest goal-scorer in FIFA World Cup history, leading Argentina into the knockout rounds with a commanding victory.
Argentina captain Lionel Messi added another historic milestone to his legendary career on Monday, scoring twice in a 2-0 victory over Austria and becoming the highest goal-scorer in FIFA World Cup history.
The defending champions secured their second straight win of the tournament and booked a place in the knockout stage, but the night belonged to Messi. The 38-year-old forward netted his 17th World Cup goal in the first half, surpassing former Germany striker Miroslav Klose to claim the all-time scoring record. He later added his 18th goal deep into stoppage time to complete a memorable performance.
Messi’s breakthrough came in the 38th minute when he connected with a pass from Facundo Medina and fired a first-time left-footed shot into the net. His second arrived after he followed up his own rebound during a swift counterattack, putting the result beyond doubt.
The Argentine icon could have reached the landmark earlier after a ninth-minute penalty was awarded following a foul on Lautaro Martínez. However, Messi sent the spot-kick wide before recovering to deliver a match-winning display.
Speaking after the game, Messi praised his teammates and highlighted the importance of the victory. He described the match as difficult and said earning six points from two games provided confidence for the challenges ahead.
The achievement further strengthens Messi’s remarkable World Cup legacy. Having already joined Cristiano Ronaldo as one of only two players to appear in six World Cups, he has now scored 18 goals in the tournament, including 11 after turning 35.
His opener against Austria also matched another historic mark, making him only the third player to score in six consecutive World Cup matches, alongside French great Just Fontaine and Brazilian legend Jairzinho.
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