Lionel Messi added another remarkable chapter to his legendary career after scoring twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria, becoming the highest scorer in FIFA World Cup history.
The Argentine captain entered the match level with former Germany striker Miroslav Klose after his hat trick against Algeria in the opening group fixture. His two goals in Dallas lifted his World Cup tally to 18, moving him ahead of Klose’s previous record of 16 goals.
Argentina’s breakthrough arrived in the 38th minute following a well worked attacking move. Facundo Medina delivered a low pass into the box and Thiago Almada intelligently allowed the ball to run through, creating space for Messi to strike first time from close range. The finish gave Argentina the lead and secured a historic milestone for the veteran forward.
The record could have come much earlier. Argentina earned a penalty inside the opening ten minutes after Lautaro Martinez was brought down in the area. Messi stepped up but sent his effort wide, temporarily delaying the achievement.
Austria remained competitive throughout the contest and nearly found an equaliser late in the second half. Marcel Sabitzer, making his 100th appearance for his country, tested Emiliano Martinez with a powerful free kick, but the Argentine goalkeeper produced an important save to preserve his side’s advantage.
Messi then removed any remaining doubt about the outcome deep into added time. After Julian Alvarez was initially denied by goalkeeper Alexander Schlager, the loose ball fell kindly for Messi, who squeezed a precise finish home from a narrow angle despite pressure from defenders.
The result guarantees Argentina a place in the last 32 with six points from two matches. They join Mexico, the United States and Germany among the teams already through to the knockout rounds.
The latest accomplishment further strengthens Messi’s extraordinary World Cup legacy. Twelve of his 18 tournament goals have been scored after the age of 35, highlighting his ability to perform at the highest level well into the later stages of his career. His World Cup journey began with a goal against Serbia and Montenegro as an 18 year old and eventually culminated in lifting the trophy in 2022.
Now representing Inter Miami, Messi has scored 122 international goals in 201 appearances for Argentina. While France star Kylian Mbappe sits on 15 World Cup goals and continues to chase the record, the Argentine icon has once again raised the standard and may yet extend his lead further before this tournament concludes.
