Lionel Messi scored his 17th and 18th World Cup goals during Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria on June 22, 2026, becoming the all-time leading scorer in men's World Cup history and overall World Cup history across genders [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7].

Messi's 17th goal broke the previous men's record of 16 held by Germany's Miroslav Klose. His 18th goal also surpassed Brazilian women's player Marta's record of 17 goals, making him the highest scorer in World Cup history [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6].

He scored both goals in the match: his first was a left-footed finish from a Facundo Medina cross, and the second came in stoppage time after expertly outfoxing defenders inside the box [1, 2, 5, 6]. Messi had missed an early penalty but doubled down to secure the win [2, 3, 5, 6].

The 2-0 victory secured Argentina's place in the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup with six points from two group matches [1, 2, 3, 6]. It marked Messi's sixth World Cup appearance. He has now scored 18 goals in 28 World Cup matches, with six consecutive appearances on the scoresheet—a feat matched previously only by Just Fontaine and Jairzinho [8, 4, 5].

Messi turned 39 years old two days later, on June 24 [2, 4, 5, 6]. Despite the records and intense media scrutiny, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said, "I have no more words to talk about Leo. It makes us a little bit tired talking about him all the time" but praised his commitment [3]. Messi himself admitted, "I'm very tired," adding, "I'm very happy with the win. It was a hugely important victory, a tough one, and one we worked hard for. It gives us calm for what's coming" [2].

Since reversing his 2016 international retirement, Messi has scored 13 World Cup goals, including seven in the 2022 tournament that Argentina won [5].

He faces strong competition for the 2026 Golden Boot from stars like Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland [8, 7]. Olivier Giroud noted, "It's clear just how passionate Messi still is for football and you can tell it's in his DNA to always be a competitor, and to try and outdo himself more than anyone else" [8]. Messi said, "I enjoy playing and having a good time on the pitch. We enjoy seeing the people like this too, being able to give them this kind of joy" [5].

Argentina will play their third group match next, aiming to maintain their winning form and momentum in the tournament.