Lionel Messi becomes World Cup’s all-time leading scorer as Argentina reach knockout stage

Lionel Messi delivered another unforgettable performance on football's biggest stage as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 to secure qualification for the knockout phase of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Argentine captain scored both goals in Dallas to become the highest goalscorer in men's FIFA World Cup history, overtaking Germany legend Miroslav Klose and further strengthening his legacy as one of the greatest players the sport has ever produced.

The victory also ensured Argentina reached the Round of 32 with a game to spare as Lionel Scaloni's side impressively continued their title defence.

Messi responds after early penalty miss

The evening did not begin perfectly for the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. Argentina were awarded a penalty inside the opening 10 minutes after Lautaro Martinez was brought down following a VAR review. Messi stepped forward but fired his effort wide, passing up an early opportunity to break the all-time scoring record.

Rather than allowing the miss to affect him, the veteran forward responded like champions often do.

In the 38th minute, Thiago Almada's intelligent movement allowed Facundo Medina's low cross to reach Messi inside the area, where he calmly swept home his first-time finish to move past Klose's previous record.

Austria push back but Argentina stay in control

Austria enjoyed more possession after halftime and threatened through Marcel Sabitzer, whose dangerous free-kick forced an excellent save from Emiliano Martinez. Despite Austria's improved display, Argentina remained composed defensively and continued to control the key moments.

As the match entered stoppage time, Julian Alvarez broke forward before his effort was blocked. The loose ball fell kindly for Messi, who finished from a tight angle to complete his brace and put the result beyond doubt.

Argentina continue strong title defence

Having already opened their tournament with victory over Algeria, Argentina now sit comfortably at the top of Group J with maximum points. Messi has scored five goals in his opening two matches, underlining his importance despite approaching the twilight of his remarkable international career.

Scaloni's squad once again demonstrated the balance that made them world champions four years earlier, combining defensive organisation with attacking quality whenever opportunities presented themselves.

With qualification already secured, Argentina can now focus on finishing top of the group before the knockout rounds begin.

Messi's legacy reaches another historic milestone

Breaking the World Cup scoring record is another remarkable achievement in a career already filled with football milestones. The Argentine icon has now rewritten one of the tournament's oldest records while continuing to lead his country in pursuit of back-to-back World Cup titles.

At 39 years old, Messi continues to influence matches at the highest level, proving once again why he remains football's defining figure. For Argentina, the objective now shifts from qualifying to defending their crown.

With Messi producing historic performances and the squad gathering momentum, the South Americans have firmly established themselves among the leading contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

SportsLigue