Lionel Messi Sets World Cup Scoring Record

In Arlington, Texas, Lionel Messi made history by breaking the World Cup scoring record. During Argentina’s match against Austria, Messi scored his 17th goal, securing a 1-0 lead in the 38th minute of the game. This achievement came two days before his 39th birthday amidst personal concerns for his ailing father.

Messi’s goal also marked the sixth consecutive World Cup match in which he has scored, a feat previously achieved only by France’s Just Fontaine and Brazil’s Jairzinho. Earlier in the tournament, Messi had tied Germany’s Miroslav Klose for the record—16 goals—with his performance against Algeria, where he completed his first World Cup hat trick.

The decisive goal came as Messi capitalized on a pass from Facuno Medina, which Thiago Almada smartly allowed to go through. Messi received the ball 20 yards out and caught Austria’s goalkeeper, Alexander Schlager, leaning the wrong way. Fans erupted in celebration as Messi raced towards the corner, lifting his right arm in triumph.

Earlier in the match, a missed penalty kick by Messi seemed to have the crowd holding its breath. His left-footed attempt drifted wide of the right post, marking his record of 4 out of 7 on penalty kicks in regulation World Cup play. This miss was his third consecutive penalty error across tournaments.

In an interview, Klose had remarked about the likelihood of his record falling, citing the expanded number of teams and matches as opportunities for Messi. Klose acknowledged Messi’s exceptional talent, recognizing him as a worthy successor.

Messi’s career has been storied. His recent hat trick was scored on his 200th international appearance, exactly 20 years since his World Cup debut. Monday’s game marked his 28th World Cup match—a new FIFA record.

The penalty situation arose when Lautaro Martinez was fouled in the box. Austria’s Xaver Schlager and Stefan Posch, despite one involving a tactical play, led to a penalty after review by officials.

Off the field, Messi deals with personal challenges. His father, Jorge Messi, who has been instrumental in handling his career, is currently undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness.