Lionel Messi Sets New FIFA World Cup Goal Record
Messi Breaks World Cup Goal Record
In a historic moment, Lionel Messi has etched his name in the record books as the highest goal scorer in FIFA World Cup history, netting his 17th goal during Argentina's match against Austria on June 22 at Dallas Stadium in Arlington. The 38-year-old forward surpassed the previous record held by German legend Miroslav Klose. Messi scored in the 38th minute with a precise left-footed shot, following a brilliant assist from Medina and a clever dummy by Enzo Fernandez that created space for him. This goal came after he had missed a penalty in the 8th minute and had two earlier opportunities that went begging.
Messi's Historic Achievement
Before this match, both Messi and Klose were tied at 16 goals each. Klose had previously broken the record set by Brazilian icon Ronaldo during Germany's stunning 7-1 win over Brazil in the semi-finals of the 2014 World Cup.
Top Goal Scorers in FIFA World Cup History| Player | Country | Goals |
| Lionel Messi | Argentina | 17 |
| Miroslav Klose | Germany | 16 |
| Ronaldo | Brazil | 15 |
| Kylian Mbappe | France | 14 |
| Gerd Muller | Germany | 14 |
Additionally, Messi holds the record for the most contributions in World Cup history, totaling 25 (17 goals and 8 assists). This surpasses the previous record of Pelé, who had 21 goals and 12 assists. According to OPTA statistics, Messi shares the record for the most assists in the tournament with Diego Maradona, each having eight assists. Messi made his World Cup debut in 2006, scoring his first goal after an eight-year wait, having not found the net in 2010. He scored four times in 2014 and once in 2018, and during Argentina's victorious 2022 World Cup campaign, he netted seven goals. He kicked off the 2026 edition with a hat-trick against Algeria, marking the first of his career in the tournament.