Lionel Messi Aims for Historic FIFA World Cup Goal Record

Lionel Messi is set to potentially break the FIFA World Cup all-time goalscoring record in an upcoming match against Austria. After scoring a hat-trick in Argentina's opener, he stands at 16 goals, tied with Miroslav Klose. A single goal will make him the undisputed top scorer. Additionally, Messi could join the elite ranks of players who have scored in six consecutive World Cup matches. With Argentina's strong performance in their first game, fans are hopeful for another victory that will secure their place in the knockout stage. Will Messi make history tonight?

By Narendra Chaudhary Jun 22, 2026, 03:19 IST

Messi on the Verge of Breaking World Cup Goal Record

Could Lionel Messi become the all-time leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history tonight? The Argentine captain is poised to achieve a remarkable milestone. After netting a stunning hat-trick in Argentina's opening match against Algeria, Messi has now scored a total of 16 goals in World Cup tournaments, tying him with Germany's Miroslav Klose for the most goals ever recorded in the competition.

With just one more goal, Messi will claim the title of the undisputed top scorer. His supporters are eagerly anticipating that he will set this new record in the upcoming match against Austria. Although Messi has won the Ballon d'Or eight times, he has yet to secure the Golden Boot for being the top scorer in a single World Cup. This year, he might finally add that accolade to his impressive list of achievements.

Can Messi Join the Ranks of Just Fontaine and Jairzinho?

In the history of the World Cup, only two players have managed to score in six consecutive matches. French icon Just Fontaine accomplished this in the 1958 World Cup, while Brazil's Jairzinho achieved the same feat in 1970. If Messi finds the net against Austria, he will join this exclusive group.

His scoring streak began during the 2022 World Cup, where he scored against Australia in the pre-quarter-finals, the Netherlands in the quarter-finals, Croatia in the semi-finals, and France in the final. He continued this impressive form by scoring in Argentina's first match of the current World Cup, placing him on the brink of multiple records tonight.

Argentina's Path to the Knockout Stage

The defending champions, Argentina, are nearing the knockout stage after a decisive 3-0 victory in their opening game. Austria also had a strong start, winning their first match 3-1 against Jordan. The winner of this match will secure a spot in the next round, and fans are optimistic that Argentina will emerge victorious.