Lionel Messi breaks World Cup scoring record as Argentina defeats Austria

Lionel Messi scored both goals in Argentina's 2‑0 group‑stage win over Austria at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, raising his World Cup tally to 18 and overtaking Miroslav Klose to become the all‑time leading scorer in men's FIFA World Cup history. The match was part of the 2026 tournament, co‑hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico and featuring an expanded 48‑team format.

In a separate group game, Cristiano Ronaldo netted a brace against Uzbekistan, becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups and taking his total to 10 World Cup goals. Former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp praised both legends, calling Messi "a player like no other" and lauding Ronaldo's determination at age 41.

The records advance Argentina and Portugal to the next round of the competition, while the United States hosted the Argentina‑Austria fixture.