Lionel Messi becomes World Cup's all-time top scorer with 18 goals as Argentina beat Austria 2-0 to reach last 32

Record-breaking night

Lionel Messi entered the match tied with Miroslav Klose on 16 men's World Cup goals after a hat-trick against Algeria. A missed penalty in the eighth minute threatened to delay the moment, but he swept home Facundo Medina's low cross in the 38th minute to claim the men's record outright. In stoppage time he added his second of the night to end on 18, moving beyond Marta's 17 to become the top scorer in combined men's and women's World Cup history.

The two goals lifted Argentina to a 2-0 win, secured their place in the knockout stage with a game to spare, and etched Messi's name atop a mark that had belonged to Klose since 2014.

“The truth is that the way it turned out today was spectacular. I had the penalty that could have increased the lead, but I'm happy with the result and with the team's work.”

Mbappé in pursuit

Kylian Mbappé is the closest active challenger to the new record. The France forward scored twice in a 3-0 win over Iraq to reach 16 World Cup goals, level with Klose and two behind Messi. Mbappé, playing in his third tournament, has 16 appearances and has scored in each of his last four World Cup matches.

Messi18

Marta17

Klose16

Mbappé16

Messi

18

Marta

17

Klose

16

Mbappé

16

Data from the article text

Other stars shine

Erling Haaland has four goals from Norway's opening two games, while Spain's 18-year-old Lamine Yamal scored on his first start in two months to inspire a 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia. England's Harry Kane matched Gary Lineker's tournament tally with two goals against Croatia.

Controversy and praise

Austria coach Ralf Rangnick questioned whether Argentina's first goal should have stood, arguing that Xaver Schlager was fouled in the build-up. He nonetheless acknowledged Messi's impact.

“If someone is 39 years old and can score two goals and five overall at the beginning of the World Cup, that makes a difference. He showed he's one of the best, or even the best.”

Despite the loss, Rangnick praised Austria's control in the second half. His side remain in contention for a knockout spot ahead of their final group match against Algeria, having earlier beaten Jordan 3-1.