Football legend Lionel Messi has added another remarkable achievement to his glittering career after becoming the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.
The Argentine captain reached the milestone on Monday after scoring twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria, helping his country secure qualification for the knockout stage of the tournament.
The goals took Messi’s World Cup tally to 18, moving him ahead of former Germany striker Miroslav Klose, who previously held the record with 16 goals.
Messi had already drawn level with Klose after scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening match against Algeria, but his latest brace officially placed him alone at the top of the all-time scoring chart.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner opened the scoring in the first half with a trademark curling effort from outside the box, reminding fans why he remains one of football’s greatest players.
Despite missing a penalty earlier in the match, Messi bounced back in style and later found the net again deep into stoppage time to seal Argentina’s victory.
The historic night was another memorable moment in a career already packed with records, trophies and unforgettable performances.
At 38, Messi continues to defy expectations and prove why many consider him one of the greatest footballers of all time.
While France star Kylian Mbappé remains the closest active player to the record with 14 World Cup goals, Messi has now set a new benchmark that may stand for years to come.
The Argentine icon is also making history by appearing in his sixth World Cup, a feat matched only by Cristiano Ronaldo and Mexico goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa.
For football fans around the world, the latest achievement is yet another reminder of Messi’s extraordinary impact on the game.
Source: Tournament Reports
