Lionel Messi Becomes All-Time Leading Goalscorer in FIFA World Cup History

Messi Surpasses Klose's Record

In Texas, on June 23, German football icon Miroslav Klose extended his congratulations to Lionel Messi, labeling the Argentine captain as the "greatest footballer of all time". This accolade came after Messi surpassed Klose to become the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, as reported by a sports news outlet.

Messi achieved this remarkable milestone during Argentina's Group J match against Austria on June 22, where he netted two goals in a 2-0 victory, ensuring the defending champions advanced to the knockout stage.

Entering the match tied with Klose at 16 World Cup goals, Messi equaled the record in Argentina's opening game against Algeria. He then broke the record with a goal in the 38th minute against Austria, followed by another in stoppage time, bringing his total World Cup goals to 18.

Klose expressed his admiration for Messi, stating, "I’ve always said Messi is no slouch. For me, Leo is the best footballer of all time! Congratulations, champion."

In addition to becoming the all-time leading scorer in men's FIFA World Cup history, Messi reached another significant achievement during the match. According to Opta, he became only the second player in World Cup history to score four or more goals in three different tournaments (2014, 2022, and 2026), a feat previously accomplished by Klose.

Messi's two goals against Austria also placed him at the top of the scoring leaderboard for the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, with five goals in just two matches. He entered this game following a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina's first match.

The 38-year-old has now scored in six consecutive World Cup matches, tying the all-time record for scoring in six straight World Cup games, a record shared with France's Just Fontaine and Brazil's Jairzinho.

With six points from two matches, Argentina is currently leading Group J and has already secured a spot in the knockout stage of the tournament.