FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi becomes tournament’s all-time leading goal scorer with 17th goal

Argentina captain Lionel Messi created history at the FIFA World Cup 2026 by becoming the tournament's all-time leading goal scorer. Messi scored against Austria in the 38th minute of Argentina's Group J clash at Dallas Stadium on Monday, taking his World Cup tally to 17 goals.

The goal was Messi's fourth of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and helped him surpass former Germany striker Miroslav Klose's record of 16 goals. Messi now tops the list of highest goal scorers in FIFA World Cup history, ahead of Klose (16) and Brazil legend Ronaldo (15). France's Kylian Mbappe and Germany's Gerd Müller follow with 14 goals each.

Just two days before his 39th birthday, Messi also joined France's Just Fontaine and Brazil's Jairzinho as only the third player to score in six consecutive FIFA World Cup matches.

The historic goal came after a brilliant exchange with Thiago Almada. Messi passed the ball to Almada, who returned it with a perfectly timed pass. The Argentine star controlled the ball and fired a powerful shot past Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager to give Argentina a 1-0 lead.

Messi could have broken the record earlier in the match but missed a penalty during Argentina's dominant opening spell.

Austria responded strongly after the missed spot-kick, pressing high and disrupting Argentina's rhythm. However, despite enjoying a good spell of possession, Austria failed to convert their chances.

Argentina eventually regained control, with Messi once again proving decisive. His record-breaking strike not only put the defending champions ahead but also cemented his place in FIFA World Cup history as the tournament's most prolific goal scorer.

At half-time, Argentina led Austria 1-0 at Dallas Stadium.