Lionel Messi has added another remarkable achievement to his legendary career after becoming the FIFA World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer.
The Argentina captain made history during his country’s second match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against Austria, scoring his 17th World Cup goal to move clear at the top of the tournament’s scoring charts.
The milestone came when the 38-year-old curled a trademark left-footed effort into the net to give Argentina the lead and further cement his status as one of football’s greatest players.
Messi Continues Record-Breaking World Cup Run
Messi has enjoyed a sensational start to the tournament as Argentina seek to defend the title they won four years ago.
After scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening match, the Inter Miami forward followed it up with another goal against Austria to set a new World Cup record.
The Argentine star has now scored in six consecutive World Cup matches, a feat achieved by only two other players in the competition’s history — France’s Just Fontaine and Brazil’s Jairzinho, both in 1958.
No player has ever scored in seven straight World Cup matches.
Argentina will next face Jordan, with Messi aiming to extend both his scoring streak and his record tally.
Golden Boot Within Reach
Despite his long list of achievements, one major World Cup individual honour has eluded Messi throughout his career — the Golden Boot.
Given his blistering form in the tournament, the Argentine captain is now among the favourites to finish as the competition’s top scorer.
Still Setting the Standard at 38
Messi, who turns 39 on Wednesday, has spent the last three years playing for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.
Yet, age appears to have done little to slow him down.
According to Opta, Messi has also created the most chances in World Cup history. He is just one assist away from becoming the outright leader in assists since records began in 1966.
He currently shares that assist record with his idol, Diego Maradona.
While a new generation of stars such as Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland and Vinícius Júnior continue to shine on the global stage, Messi remains the benchmark.
As Argentina continue their quest to retain the World Cup, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is once again proving why many regard him as the greatest player the game has ever seen.
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