Messi Becomes World Cup's All-Time Leading Scorer as Argentina Advances Past Austria

Lionel Messi cemented his legacy by becoming the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history, surpassing Miroslav Klose's record of 16 goals with a commanding two-goal performance in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria on Monday in Dallas. The defending World Cup champion secured its place in the knockout stage with the win, advancing to the top of Group J with six points from two matches. Messi's 17th and 18th World Cup goals—achieved just two days before his 39th birthday—demonstrate his enduring influence on the tournament, accomplished across six consecutive World Cups spanning decades.

Messi's first-half strike broke Klose's longstanding record after the Argentine captain had missed a penalty kick in the ninth minute. He extended his record-breaking tally in stoppage time, adding another goal after Schlager deflected his initial shot. Despite the early setback and Austria's persistent pressing that disrupted Argentina's rhythm, Messi responded with intensity and determination. "There were moments when I was really angry about missing the penalty, but I was able to make up for it," Messi reflected after the match. The brace followed his hat-trick in Argentina's opening 3-0 victory over Algeria, giving Messi five goals in the tournament so far—leading the scoring charts.

Messi has now scored across six consecutive World Cup tournaments, joining an elite group alongside Pelé and others who have demonstrated remarkable longevity at the sport's premier event. He has accumulated 12 World Cup goals since turning 35, underlining his sustained excellence. His tally of 18 goals came in 28 World Cup appearances. Klose, now managing German second-tier club FC Nurnberg, publicly congratulated his successor: "For me, Lionel Messi is the best of all time. Congratulations, champ!"

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni tempered expectations despite the commanding display, cautioning that multiple teams could claim the title. "There are many teams that can win this World Cup, maybe seven or eight," Scaloni said. "This tournament isn't only about favorites or individual players." He praised his team's resilience after a difficult opening phase, noting that Messi's involvement galvanized the squad both offensively and defensively. The match was marred by concern over defender Cristian Romero's apparent knee injury, though its severity remains unclear.

Argentina fans celebrated the historic moment across Buenos Aires, gathering in parks including Plaza Seeber and Plaza San Martín to watch the match on giant screens. Many expressed confidence in Argentina's prospects for a fourth World Cup title, following victories in 1978, 1986, and 2022. "We are doing well, and I really trust this team," one fan said. When asked about his age, Messi dismissed concerns: "I'm not spending time thinking about my age. I'm simply focused on being well. I feel physically good, and maybe that's why I'm playing better." Argentina completes Group J play on Saturday against Jordan, with Messi's participation in that match to be determined by coach Scaloni.

The record came exactly 40 years to the day after Diego Maradona's "Goal of the Century" against England in the 1986 World Cup quarterfinals, another iconic No. 10 moment in Argentina's World Cup history. Messi's achievement marks the second major milestone scored by an Argentine captain this World Cup season, reinforcing the nation's continued dominance in international football.