ARLINGTON, TEXAS (MNN); Argentine football icon Lionel Messi has become the highest goal scorer in FIFA World Cup history after netting his 17th World Cup goal during Argentina’s Group J clash against Austria.
The historic milestone was achieved on Monday at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, when the Argentine captain scored his side’s opening goal in the 38th minute, sparking jubilant celebrations among supporters.
Messi had already matched the previous World Cup scoring record of 16 goals, held by former German striker Miroslav Klose, after scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria in their opening match of the tournament.
Although the 38-year-old missed a penalty earlier in the match against Austria, he recovered to write another chapter in football history with his record-breaking strike.
Competing in his sixth FIFA World Cup since making his tournament debut in 2006, Messi has now scored 121 goals in 201 appearances for Argentina. He has also become only the third player to score in six consecutive World Cup tournaments for his national team.
His remarkable longevity and continued excellence have strengthened Argentina’s hopes of retaining the World Cup title and becoming the first nation since Brazil national football team in 1962 to successfully defend the trophy.
Messi was visibly emotional after scoring against Algeria in Argentina’s opening match. Reports later revealed that his father is currently recovering from an undisclosed health condition.
Despite dealing with personal challenges and concerns over a hamstring problem before the tournament, Messi’s influence on the Argentine squad remains immense.
Following the win over Algeria, midfielder Alexis Mac Allister praised his captain’s impact, saying Messi’s importance to the team had once again been clearly demonstrated.
The veteran forward, who currently plays for Inter Miami CF, had delayed confirming his participation in the North American tournament until shortly before it began. Nevertheless, few expected the football legend to miss Argentina’s title defence.
Messi previously guided Argentina to World Cup glory four years ago and remains the central figure in the team’s quest for another championship.
Argentina can secure qualification for the knockout stage with a victory over Austria and would guarantee top spot in Group J if Jordan fail to defeat Algeria later on Monday.
Behind Messi and Klose on the World Cup all-time scoring list is Brazilian legend Ronaldo with 15 goals. He is followed by former German star Gerd Müller and France forward Kylian Mbappé, who have each scored 14 World Cup goals.
