Lionel Messi has spoken after breaking the World Cup all-time top scorer record with two goals against Austria. The Argentina captain missed a penalty in the ninth minute but bounced back minutes later with a trademark outside goal. He added a second in the closing seconds of the game to become the World Cup all-time top scorer with 18 goals, surpassing German legend Miroslav Klose.
Messi's Performance Against Austria
Messi had the chance to make history in the ninth minute against Austria from the penalty spot after Lautaro Martinez was fouled, but he placed his spot-kick off target. The Argentina captain bounced back minutes later with a trademark goal. Facundo Medina crossed to an unmarked Messi with Thiago Almada creating a superb dummy. Messi placed a brilliant ball into the path of Julian Alvarez in the closing stages, but the striker missed. The Inter Miami star picked it up and scored his second.
Argentina's World Cup Campaign
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has now scored all five Argentine goals at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and has led them into the knockout stage. Messi did not dwell on his personal achievement but spoke about the beauty of the win and how it will make the team relaxed for their final game against Jordan.
Messi's Reaction to the Record
“To be honest, I’m really happy about the win, especially as it’s such a crucial victory, hard-fought and well-earned, but one that gives us peace of mind for what lies ahead,” he told FIFA. “This is the World Cup; it was a very evenly matched, very intense match, and we’re happy to have picked up six points and to have already qualified.”
Previous Hat-Trick Against Algeria
Legit.ng previously reported Lionel Messi’s reaction after he scored a hat-trick against Algeria, his first-ever treble in the FIFA World Cup. As always, he looked forward to the next game, instead of focusing on his personal record of equalling Miroslav Klose’s World Cup goal record.
