Breaking: "Messi" makes unprecedented history at the 2026 World Cup, a feat never achieved before.
On 23 June 2026, Lionel Messi made World Cup history by scoring for Argentina to take a 1-0 lead against Austria in the first half of the 2026 World Cup group stage, matchday 2 of Group J.
This was Messi's 17th goal in his sixth World Cup finals appearance, breaking the record previously held by Germany legend Miroslav Klose.
Ultimately, Lionel Messi scored both goals as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0, securing their place in the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup and extending his record as the all-time leading World Cup scorer to 18 goals.
1. Lionel Messi (Argentina) 18 goals in 28 matches
2. Miroslav Klose (Germany) 16 goals in 24 matches
3. Ronaldo (Brazil) 15 goals in 19 matches
4. Gerd Müller (Germany) 14 goals in 13 matches
5. Kylian Mbappé (France) 14 goals in 15 matches