Lionel Messi has become the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history. The Argentinian scored his 17th goal in the competition against Austria, in Argentina's second match in Group J of the 2026 World Cup. With this goal, Messi surpasses Miroslav Klose, who held the record with 16 goals. The former German striker is no longer alone at the top of the all-time rankings. Messi had equaled his record a few days earlier thanks to his hat-trick against Algeria, in Argentina's opening match of the tournament.
A missed penalty, then the record
The record could have fallen earlier. Early in the match, Messi had his first major opportunity from the penalty spot, but his attempt went wide. The Argentinian then remained stuck at 16 goals, tied with Klose. What followed changed the evening. In the 38th minute, Messi finally scored against Austria. This goal gave Argentina the lead and put him alone at the top of the all-time World Cup goalscoring charts.
Klose surpassed, the record changes hands
The all-time rankings have shifted. Messi now has 17 World Cup goals. Klose, a 2014 World Cup winner with Germany, remains at 16. Behind them are the other big names in the tournament, but the benchmark is now set by the Argentinian captain. This record adds to an already unique trajectory in the competition. Messi will play in his sixth World Cup in 2026. Against Austria, he played his 28th match in the tournament, another marker of longevity at the highest level. Approaching 39, Messi continues to write World Cup history. Klose's record was one of the most symbolic in international football. It has just fallen.
