Lionel Messi has written another remarkable chapter in football history after becoming the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, surpassing the long-standing record held by Germany legend Miroslav Klose.
The Argentina captain achieved the milestone during his country’s World Cup clash against Austria on Monday, finding the net to move ahead of Klose’s previous record of 16 goals.
Messi had drawn level with the German icon in Argentina’s opening Group J match against Algeria, where he delivered a stunning hat-trick to reach the historic mark.
With expectations high heading into the encounter against Austria, the 39-year-old forward did not disappoint.
After enduring a frustrating opening period and missing a penalty inside the first 10 minutes, Messi responded in trademark fashion. The Argentine star eventually broke the deadlock in the 39th minute with a composed left-footed finish to put his side ahead and set a new World Cup scoring benchmark.
The goal marked Messi’s fourth of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and moved him alone to the top of the tournament’s all-time scoring chart.
Competing in what is his record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance, Messi continues to extend his extraordinary legacy on football’s biggest stage.
Argentina now moves closer to securing qualification for the Round of 32, with victory over Austria strengthening their position in Group J.
Messi is also guaranteed at least one more group-stage appearance, with Argentina scheduled to face Jordan in their final group match on June 28, giving the Argentine captain another opportunity to add to his historic tally.
Meanwhile, Klose’s former record may continue to face pressure during this tournament. France forward Kylian Mbappe remains in pursuit, having entered the competition with 14 World Cup goals and closing in on the historic mark.