Messi surpasses Klose as Argentina secure World Cup knockout berth with victory over Austria
The 39-year-old captain scored twice to reach 17 career tournament goals, overtaking Miroslav Klose’s long-standing record in a 2-0 Group J win in Arlington, Texas.
Lionel Messi has become the all-time leading goal-scorer in FIFA World Cup history, surpassing Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 goals, as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 in a Group J match at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on 22 June 2026. The 39-year-old Argentine captain overcame an early penalty miss to net five goals in two tournament games, securing his nation’s progression to the knockout stages.
Messi’s first goal arrived in the 38th minute via a 20-yard left-footed shot, assisted by Thiago Almada and Facundo Medina. His second goal was a rebound in stoppage time, slotting the ball from the left side of the area. This performance brought his total World Cup tally to 17, officially breaking the record previously held by the German striker.
The victory came despite an early setback for the captain, who missed a penalty kick in the 12th minute. This marked his third penalty miss in the 2026 World Cup, yet he rebounded to lead Argentina to a decisive win in front of 70,649 spectators. The result ensures Argentina, the defending champions from the 2022 tournament, move into the Round of 32.
Austrian coach Ralf Rangnick praised Messi’s performance, noting his age and impact. “Someone who is 39 years old and can score two goals, and five goals overall at the beginning of the World Cup, well, that makes a difference,” Rangnick told the Associated Press. Teammates Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Alvarez also commented on Messi’s influence and adaptability, highlighting his high football intelligence and ability to orchestrate play.
While Messi extends his record, French striker Kylian Mbappé also scored twice in a separate match against Iraq, finishing with 16 World Cup goals, keeping him one behind Messi. Messi, who plays for Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer, has now created 76 chances in World Cup history, the most in tournament history, underscoring his evolution from a pure scorer to a comprehensive playmaker.
