Messi is already the best shooter in the history of the World Cup.

Lionel Messi has etched his name into football history by becoming the all-time leading scorer at the FIFA World Cup. During Argentina's match against Austria on June 24, 2026, Messi scored two goals, bringing his total to 17 goals across six World Cup tournaments. This surpassed the previous record held by German striker Miroslav Klose, who had scored 16 goals over four World Cups. The first goal came in the 38th minute when Messi converted a cross from full-back Medina, putting Argentina ahead. He added a second goal later in the game to secure a 2:0 victory.

Messi’s achievement marks him as only the third player in history to score in six consecutive World Cup matches. Before him, this feat was accomplished by French forward Just Fontaine during the 1958 World Cup and Brazilian player Jairzinho at the 1970 tournament. His performance also highlights his consistency and longevity in international football, as he is now participating in his sixth World Cup, having made 28 appearances so far—a record set by FIFA.

The path to this milestone was not without challenges. In the early stages of the current World Cup campaign, Messi faced a crucial moment in the opening match against Algeria, where he missed a penalty kick in the ninth minute. Despite this setback, he went on to score a hat-trick in that game, marking his 200th appearance for the Argentine national team. This milestone coincided with exactly 20 years since his debut at the 2006 World Cup, where he also found the back of the net as a substitute.

Beyond scoring, Messi continues to pursue another historic record—most assists at a single World Cup. Currently tied with his compatriot Diego Maradona, both players have created eight goals for their teammates. This pursuit adds another layer to Messi’s legacy, showcasing not just his ability to find the net but also his playmaking skills.

As the tournament progresses, Messi remains a central figure for Argentina, whose journey in the competition is still unfolding. With his age approaching 40, the pressure to perform is immense, yet his recent performances suggest he is still in peak condition. His leadership on and off the pitch has been instrumental in guiding Argentina through the group stage, where they secured victories against both Algeria and Austria.

Looking ahead, Argentina faces several critical matches in the knockout rounds, which will determine whether they can advance further in the tournament. For Messi personally, each match presents an opportunity to break more records and solidify his status as one of the greatest footballers of all time. Whether he achieves these goals or not, his impact on the sport and the World Cup itself is already undeniable.

The tournament, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, offers a unique setting for Messi to showcase his talents on home soil for many of the fans. As the competition moves into its more intense phases, all eyes will remain on the Argentine star, whose every action could influence the trajectory of both his career and the outcome of the World Cup.