Messi sets World Cup scoring record as Argentina down Austria

Lionel Messi shattered the World Cup's all-time scoring record on Monday, scoring two goals to lead Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria and secure a spot in the tournament's last 32. The Argentine superstar now holds the record with 18 career World Cup goals, surpassing the previous mark of 16 held by Germany's Miroslav Klose.

Messi opened his scoring account in the 38th minute with a low finish and extended his record in stoppage time with a powerful strike through a crowd of defenders. This brace brings his total for the current tournament to five goals, following a hat-trick in Argentina's opening match. Despite missing an early penalty, Messi demonstrated his enduring prowess on the global stage.

The win guarantees Argentina's advancement to the knockout rounds. Meanwhile, Kylian Mbappe of France is also climbing the all-time scoring charts, currently tied with Gerd Mueller on 14 goals and aiming for his 100th international appearance. The tournament also saw Spain's dominant 4-0 win against Saudi Arabia and a surprising 2-2 draw between debutants Cape Verde and Uruguay.

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There is nothing bigger, 100 is a historic figure, and to have the chance to reach that tally here at a World Cup means it will be a special match for me.