Messi becomes all-time leading World Cup scorer with two goals against Austria

Lionel Messi cemented his status as a football legend by becoming the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history. The 39-year-old captain scored twice as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0, securing their place in the next round.

Messi broke the previous record held by former German striker Miroslav Klose, reaching his 17th and 18th goals in the tournament. This win marked Argentina's second consecutive victory, bringing them closer to finishing as Group J champions.

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Of course I am very happy with this victory because it was very important in a difficult and tough match for us. The match was balanced and full of intensity but we managed to get six points which brings calmness to face the next challenge.

Despite missing a penalty early in the match, Messi broke the deadlock in the 38th minute and completed his historic night with a second goal in injury time. Manchester City forward Julian Alvarez praised Messi's greatness, noting that "no more words can describe Messi's greatness after more than two decades dominating the world football arena."

With his 18 World Cup goals, Messi now surpasses Klose (16 goals), Brazil's Ronaldo (15), and Kylian Mbappe and Gerd Mueller, who are tied with 14 goals each, on the all-time scorers list.

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no more words can describe Messi's greatness after more than two decades dominating the world football arena.