Lionel Messi did it again — he made the impossible happen.

On an unforgettable night in Dallas, the Argentine captain scored twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria and became the highest-scoring player in World Cup history with 18 goals.

The achievement strengthens Messi’s legacy as the greatest player in the history of the World Cup and confirms Argentina’s strong momentum in the 2026 World Cup.

The Goal That Changed Everything

Lionel Messi World Cup record
Photo: EFE. Lionel Messi World Cup record

The record did not come immediately.

Messi had the chance to make history from the beginning, but he missed a penalty in the opening minutes.

Far from affecting his performance, the ‘10’ responded like a true legend.

In the 38th minute, he finished a team play with a precise shot from outside the box, scoring the goal that made him the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history.

A Brace to Complete the Perfect Night

Photo: EFE. Lionel Messi World Cup record

The story did not end there.

In stoppage time, Messi appeared once again to seal the match.

After a play he started himself, he took advantage of a rebound inside the box and pushed the ball into the back of the net to complete his brace.

Argentina secured a crucial victory with its captain as the absolute star.

A Record Built Through Years of Greatness

Mundial - Argentina - Messi
Photo: EFE. Lionel Messi World Cup record

Messi’s journey in the World Cups has been extraordinary.

From his first goal in Germany 2006, through his performances in Brazil 2014, Russia 2018, and his legendary triumph in Qatar 2022, the Argentine star has built a historic career that has now reached its highest point.

In this 2026 edition, he already has five goals after scoring a hat trick in the opening match and adding this brace against Austria.

More Than Goals: Complete Dominance in History

Photo: EFE. Lionel Messi World Cup record

With 18 goals, Messi has officially surpassed Miroslav Klose and stands alone at the top of the all-time World Cup scoring chart.

Additionally, he becomes one of the few players to score in six consecutive World Cup matches, a statistic that highlights his consistent impact throughout the tournament.

Argentina Dreams Big With Its Leader

Mundial - Argentina
Photo: EFE

Messi’s performance is lifting the entire national team.

Argentina is not only collecting important points, but doing so with its captain playing at his best, carrying the team during key moments and making the difference in every match.

A World Cup That Could Become Legendary

Lionel Messi World Cup record – Photo: EFE

With the tournament still underway, Messi continues expanding his legacy.

Every match adds another chapter to a story that is already unique, and with Argentina moving forward strongly, the Lionel Messi World Cup record could continue to grow.

Argentina will look to finish the group stage with a perfect record while Messi continues writing historic pages in the 2026 World Cup.

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