Messi scored two goals, becoming the all-time top scorer and setting records in both men's and women's football.

In the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, Argentina defeated Austria 2-0, securing their place in the Round of 32. Argentina's captain, Lionel Messi, scored both of the team's goals.

With these two goals, Messi not only surpassed German legend Miroslav Klose to become the all-time leading scorer in men's World Cup history, but also scored his 18th World Cup goal in stoppage time, surpassing Brazilian women's football legend Marta to become the all-time leading scorer in both men's and women's World Cup history.

It is worth mentioning that the day Messi broke the record had a special historical coincidence: it was exactly 20 years after he scored his first goal in the 2006 World Cup, and it was also the 40th anniversary of Diego Maradona's "Hand of God" goal in 1986.

Currently, Messi, who will soon turn 39, has scored all 5 goals for Argentina in this World Cup, temporarily leading the race for the 2026 World Cup Golden Boot.

In a post-match interview, Messi spoke about the penalty: "There was a moment today when I was very angry because I took that penalty so badly and failed to score."

"Fortunately, we were able to turn things around, take the lead, and get three valuable points, which is the most important thing. I enjoy playing on the field and having a great time."

Argentina's head coach Lionel Scaloni gave Messi extremely high praise after the match. Scaloni said, "When Messi is full of fighting spirit, everyone gets fired up."

“Even when the team is struggling, he will fight for the ball and make tackles; he gives it his all. There’s a reason for this dedication; that’s what he brings. I don’t even know what to say; no amount of praise is enough to describe him.”

Image source: Internet