Messi becomes World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer - VIDEO

Lionel Messi has become the outright all-time top goalscorer in World Cup history after scoring the opening goal in Argentina’s group-stage match against Austria on Monday evening.

Despite missing an early penalty, the 38-year-old delivered in classic Messi fashion, calmly finishing to score his 17th World Cup goal and surpass Miroslav Klose, who had held the record since 2014. Messi later added another goal late in the match, bringing his World Cup tally to 18 and completing a remarkable evening as Argentina secured a 2-0 victory and advanced to the knockout stage.

Messi, who turns 39 in two days, has now scored in six consecutive World Cup matches.

⚽???????? -- WATCH IT: Moment soccer player Messi has officially become the highest scoring player in World Cup history. pic.twitter.com/tXXqCs5nY8

— Belaaz News (@TheBelaaz) June 22, 2026

The Argentine forward had previously scored a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening 3-0 victory over Algeria, which brought him level with Klose’s previous record.

Messi is also just one assist away from becoming the leading assist provider in World Cup history. He is currently tied on eight assists with fellow Argentine football legend Diego Maradona.

Stabil.Az