Lionel Messi Breaks Miroslav Klose's World Cup Records as Argentina Reach Knockout Stage

Lionel Messi continued to redefine football greatness at the FIFA World Cup 2026, leading Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria while rewriting several records that once belonged to German legend Miroslav Klose. The Argentine captain not only became the men's World Cup's all-time leading goalscorer but also surpassed Klose's mark for the most wins by a player in tournament history, helping the defending champions secure a place in the last 32.

How Did Messi Rewrite the FIFA World Cup Record Books?

Messi delivered another historic performance in Argentina's Group J clash against Austria in Texas on Monday, scoring both goals in a 2-0 victory that sent the reigning world champions into the knockout stage.

The 38-year-old entered the match level with Germany's Miroslav Klose on 16 World Cup goals and 17 World Cup victories. He broke both records in style.

Messi's first goal in the 38th minute took him past Klose's tally of 16 World Cup goals, while his stoppage-time strike lifted his overall tournament total to 18 goals — two ahead of the German great. The victory also marked Messi's 18th World Cup win, making him the most successful player in the competition's history.

According to Opta, Messi also became only the second player in men's FIFA World Cup history to score four or more goals in three different editions of the tournament — 2014, 2022 and 2026. The only other player to achieve that feat is Klose.

The brace further strengthened Messi's position atop the scoring charts at the ongoing World Cup, taking his tally to five goals in just two matches after opening Argentina's campaign with a hat-trick against Algeria.

Adding to his remarkable list of achievements, Messi has now scored in six consecutive World Cup matches, equalling the all-time record jointly held by France's Just Fontaine and Brazil's Jairzinho.

How Did Argentina Overcome Austria's Challenge?

Despite the comfortable scoreline, Argentina were tested by an energetic Austrian side.

Messi endured a frustrating start when he missed a VAR-awarded penalty in the sixth minute, sending his effort wide. Austria responded with aggressive pressing and disrupted Argentina's rhythm for much of the opening half.

The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 38th minute when Thiago Almada's clever dummy allowed the ball to run through to Messi, who calmly slotted home to give Argentina the lead.

Austria continued to push after the break, but Argentina managed the contest effectively. Head coach Lionel Scaloni introduced Julian Alvarez and Nicolas Gonzalez midway through the second half to inject fresh energy and exploit spaces left by Austria's attacking approach.

As Austria committed players forward in search of an equaliser, Argentina struck decisively in the 95th minute. Messi led a swift counterattack and finished clinically to seal both the victory and another historic night.

The result leaves Argentina top of Group J with six points from two matches and guarantees their progression to the last 32.

A few hours after the match, Messi reflected on the victory on Instagram.

"Another victory in a complicated match, which serves us to take a little step further," Messi wrote on Instagram.

What Did Klose Say After Messi Surpassed His Record?

Klose, whose World Cup goals record had stood for more than a decade, was among the first to congratulate Messi on his achievement.

The former Germany striker offered glowing praise for the Argentine superstar after watching him move clear at the top of the World Cup scoring charts.

"I've always said Messi is no slouch. For me, Leo is the best footballer of all time! Congratulations, champion," Klose said as quoted by Goal.com.

The tribute from one of football's greatest World Cup performers added further significance to a night that saw Messi strengthen his claim as one of the most accomplished players the sport has ever seen.

With his 39th birthday approaching on June 24, Messi's latest masterclass has not only propelled Argentina deeper into the tournament but has also extended a legacy that continues to grow with every appearance on football's biggest stage.

(With inputs from ANI)