Messi becomes all-time leading scorer in World Cup finals, Argentina beats Austria 2-0

Lionel Messi became the all-time top scorer in World Cup finals on Tuesday, netting two goals to reach 18 in the tournament, overtaking Miroslav Klose's previous mark of 16. His brace led Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria in Group J.

Messi had an early chance to break the record in the ninth minute but missed a penalty, sending the ball wide. He made amends in the 38th minute, scoring from 13 meters after an assist from Facundo Medina to notch his 17th goal.

The second half was cautious, but Argentina doubled their lead in stoppage time. After Julian Alvarez's run, the ball fell to Messi, who dribbled past several defenders and slotted home. In the dying seconds, he had a chance for a hat-trick but his free kick went wide.

Argentina now has six points from two wins, all but securing first place. Austria has three points, while Jordan and Algeria have none. This is the first World Cup with 48 teams, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The group stage ends June 27, with the knockout rounds starting June 28. The final is scheduled for July 19.