Lionel Messi scored twice in Argentina’s 2-0 win over Austria on June 22 to become the all-time leading scorer in men's World Cup history with 18 goals, surpassing Miroslav Klose’s 16 and Brazil’s Marta's 17 in the women's record [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6].
Messi's first goal came in the 38th minute from a low cross by Facundo Medina, giving him a first-time finish inside the box. His second goal was scored in stoppage time to secure the victory and his record-breaking milestone [1, 2, 6]. Despite missing an early penalty during the match, Messi extended his World Cup scoring streak to six consecutive games [2, 3, 5, 6].
At nearly 39 years old, Messi is playing in his sixth World Cup and has accumulated 18 goals across 28 World Cup appearances—achieving a longevity milestone by scoring in three different decades (as a teenager, in his 20s, and 30s) [4, 5]. Argentina's win earned them six points from two Group J matches, securing their place in the knockout stage [1, 2, 3, 6].
Messi’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, praised the captain’s resolve and contribution despite fatigue from media scrutiny, saying, “When the team was having a rough time without the ball he worked, he managed to steal the ball. You could see his level of commitment.” Scaloni also admitted, “I have no more words to talk about Leo. It makes us a little bit tired talking about him all the time” [3].
Messi commented after the match, "I'm very tired. I had the penalty that could have increased the lead, but I'm happy with the result and with the team's work." He added, "Very happy for the victory, it was very important, hard, hard, hard, and it gives us peace of mind for what is to come" [2, 6]. He also said, "I enjoy playing and having a good time on the pitch. We enjoy seeing the people like this too, being able to give them this kind of joy" [5].
Other top players like Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland are also impressing at the 2026 World Cup, but Messi remains the tournament’s leading scorer and main star [7, 8]. His record total of 18 World Cup goals surpasses both the previous men’s record and the combined men’s and women’s tally, underlining his status in football history [3, 4, 5].
Messi has missed two penalties in recent World Cups, including the one against Austria, but remains prolific in open play [2, 6]. Argentina’s next match will be critical as they continue their run in the knockout phase of the tournament.
