Lionel Messi broke the record for the most career FIFA World Cup goals on Monday during a match in Arlington, Texas [1, 2].
The achievement cements Messi's legacy as the most prolific scorer in the history of the tournament, surpassing a long-standing benchmark set by Germany's Miroslav Klose [2, 4].
Messi reached the milestone during Argentina's Group J match against Austria, where he scored the goals to secure a 2-0 victory [2, 3]. According to reports, Messi scored his 17th World Cup goal before netting another to reach a total of 18 [1, 2]. This total surpasses the previous record of 16 goals held by Klose [4].
The record-breaking performance came despite an early setback. A Yahoo Sports author said Messi finally has the record all to himself after missing a chance to reach it from the penalty spot [5].
In addition to the scoring record, Messi has become the first player to score in six consecutive World Cup games [6]. The victory in Texas further solidifies Argentina's position in the tournament as they navigate the group stages in the U.S. [3].
An UPR reporter said Messi scored a record-setting 17th goal and then netted another, making him the all-time leader in World Cup tournaments for both men and women [1].
“Lionel Messi finally has the World Cup scoring record all to himself”
By surpassing Miroslav Klose's mark of 16 goals, Messi has transitioned from being one of the greatest players of his era to the statistically dominant scorer in World Cup history. This record, combined with his streak of scoring in six consecutive games, provides Argentina with significant offensive momentum heading into the knockout stages of the 2026 tournament.
