FIFA World Cup 2026: Messi surpasses Klose for most wins by a player in World Cup history

Lionel Messi has etched his name further into FIFA World Cup history, achieving a record 18 career victories after leading Argentina to a 2-0 win against Austria. This milestone surpasses the previous record of 17 wins held by German legend Miroslav Klose.

In the same Group J match on Monday, June 22 (local time) in Texas, Messi didn't just secure the win; he also broke Klose's long-standing record for the most goals scored in World Cup history. He netted his 17th and 18th career World Cup goals, moving two clear of Klose, who had 16.

This remarkable performance also saw Messi become only the second male player, after Klose, to score four or more goals in three separate World Cup tournaments (2014, 2022, and 2026). He currently leads the scoring charts in the ongoing tournament with five goals in two matches, following a hat-trick in Argentina's opener.

Despite an early missed penalty in the sixth minute, Messi broke the deadlock in the 38th minute with a calm finish. He sealed the victory with another goal in stoppage time. The win propelled Argentina to the top of Group J with six points, securing their advancement to the knockout stage. Messi's consistent scoring also matches the record for scoring in six consecutive World Cup matches, a feat previously achieved by Just Fontaine and Jairzinho.