Lionel Messi became the FIFA World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer with a record-breaking brace as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 to qualify for the 2026 World Cup knockout stage.

Messi Breaks World Cup Goals Record as Argentina Reach Last 32

Argentina captain Lionel Messi created history by becoming the FIFA World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer as the defending champions defeated Austria 2-0 to secure their place in the last 32 of the 2026 tournament.

The 38-year-old forward scored twice to take his World Cup tally to 18 goals, surpassing the previous record of 16 held by Miroslav Klose. Messi opened the scoring in the 38th minute with a composed first-time finish after an intelligent assist from Thiago Almada. He sealed the victory in stoppage time, firing home from a tight angle after Julián Álvarez had been denied by Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.

Messi had the opportunity to break the record even earlier but missed a penalty in the eighth minute after Stefan Posch fouled Lautaro Martínez inside the box. The miss, however, did little to overshadow another memorable performance from the Argentine legend.

With five goals in just two matches, following his hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina’s opening fixture, Messi is currently the leading scorer of the 2026 World Cup.

Austria, managed by Ralf Rangnick, came close to equalising in the second half, but Emiliano Martínez produced an excellent save to deny Marcel Sabitzer, who was making his 100th international appearance.

The victory takes Argentina to six points from two matches, ensuring qualification for the knockout stage. They will also secure top spot in Group J if Jordan fail to defeat Algeria in the group’s remaining fixture. Austria, with three points, remain in contention for qualification.