Lionel Messi scores historic brace, becomes all-time leading World Cup scorer
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Lionel Messi achieved another historic milestone in the 2026 World Cup by becoming the competition's all-time leading scorer.
- The Argentine star scored twice in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria at the AT&T Stadium.
- This brace propelled Messi past Miroslav Klose to claim the record for most goals scored in World Cup history.
Lionel Messi has once again made history on the world stage, etching his name as the all-time leading scorer in the 2026 World Cup. The Argentine icon achieved this remarkable feat during his team's commanding 2-0 victory over Austria, which secured their advancement in the tournament.
The match, held at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, witnessed Messi deliver a performance for the ages. His two goals against Austria were not just crucial for his team's progression but also propelled him past the previous record holder, Germany's Miroslav Klose. This achievement underscores Messi's enduring legacy and his consistent impact on football's most prestigious competition.
With this historic double, Messi has solidified his status as one of the greatest players in World Cup history. The victory over Austria ensures Argentina moves forward in the tournament, with Messi continuing to be the central figure driving their campaign. His record-breaking performance is a testament to his skill, dedication, and longevity in the sport.
Originally published by Cooperativa in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.