Lionel Messi breaks World Cup scoring record at 2026 tournament

Lionel Messi continued his historic run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring twice against Austria to raise his tally to 18 goals, surpassing the previous record and cementing his status as the tournament’s all‑time top scorer. The Argentine forward, now 39, acknowledged a missed penalty but emphasized his focus on contributing to Argentina’s campaign.

In Brazil, commentary also highlighted Neymar’s enduring talent despite injuries and his expected inclusion in the 2026 squad, noting the national excitement surrounding his potential impact as Brazil seeks another World Cup title.