Messi breaks World Cup all-time scoring record, scores twice as Argentina beat Austria
Lionel Messi scored both goals in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria on Monday, becoming the all-time leading goal scorer in World Cup final tournaments with 18 goals, surpassing Miroslav Klose.
Argentina's football superstar Lionel Messi set a new record on Monday by becoming the highest scorer in World Cup final tournaments. He netted both goals in a 2-0 win over Austria, bringing his career World Cup tally to 18 goals, two more than previous record holder Miroslav Klose of Germany. Among active players, France's Kylian Mbappé is closest with 14 goals.
In the match in Santa Clara, Messi missed a penalty in the 9th minute, sending the ball wide. However, in the 38th minute, he opened the scoring with a shot from about 13 meters after a pass from Facundo Medina. The second half was cautious, but in stoppage time, after Julián Álvarez's run, the ball fell to Messi, who dribbled past several defenders and scored. In the final seconds, Messi had a chance for his second hat-trick of the tournament, but his free kick went wide.
Argentina have six points from two wins, virtually securing top spot in Group J. Austria have three points, while Jordan and Algeria are yet to earn points. This is the first World Cup with 48 teams, co-hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The group stage runs until June 27, with the knockout stage starting June 28; the final is scheduled for July 19. Argentina won the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, defeating France on penalties.
