Lionel Messi set a new all-time FIFA World Cup scoring record during Argentina’s 2–0 victory over Austria in the 2026 tournament, surpassing Miroslav Klose’s previous mark of 16 goals. According to reports from Index.hu, the 38-year-old forward moved to 18 career World Cup goals following his brace in Dallas, despite missing an early penalty kick.
How Messi broke the all-time World Cup scoring record
Messi reached the historic milestone through a combination of sustained tournament production and a high-volume scoring rate in 2026. After opening his account with a hat-trick against Algeria, he added two goals against Austria to solidify his lead. According to FIFA historical data, this performance eclipsed the 16-goal benchmark established by Germany’s Miroslav Klose, who held the record since 2014.
Miroslav Klose’s record stood for 12 years before Messi surpassed it in the 2026 group stage. Klose’s goals were spread across four different World Cup tournaments, while Messi’s longevity has allowed him to accumulate his total over five separate appearances.
What Zlatan Ibrahimović said about Messi’s performance
Former teammate Zlatan Ibrahimović, currently serving as a Fox Sports television analyst, described Messi’s performance as “superhuman.” In comments provided to Index.hu, Ibrahimović noted the contrast between Messi’s missed penalty and his subsequent two goals. Ibrahimović, who failed to score in two World Cup appearances, highlighted the rarity of Messi’s output, remarking that the Argentine’s current tournament form is unprecedented.
How does Messi’s 2026 form compare to previous records?
The statistical jump in Messi’s output in 2026 highlights a departure from his traditional playmaking role. By scoring five goals in just two matches, Messi has achieved a scoring density rarely seen in the modern era of international football.
| Player | Total WC Goals | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | 18+ | Active |
| Miroslav Klose | 16 | Retired |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who held the World Cup scoring record before Messi?
Miroslav Klose of Germany held the record with 16 goals scored between 2002 and 2014.
How many goals has Messi scored in the 2026 World Cup?
According to Index.hu, Messi has scored five goals in two group stage matches.
Is this Messi’s final World Cup?
Media reports, including those from Index.hu, have referred to this as the forward’s final World Cup appearance.
Follow the official FIFA match center to track live updates on player statistics and tournament progression as the knockout stages approach.
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