EAST RUTHERFORD, United States — Lionel Messi is on the verge of breaking the all-time World Cup goal record as Argentina prepare to face Austria in their final Group F match, with the football icon needing just two more goals to surpass the legendary Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 career World Cup strikes.
The 39-year-old Argentine captain has already scored three goals in the tournament, bringing his total to 15 across five World Cups. Should he find the net twice against Austria at MetLife Stadium, he would stand alone as the greatest goalscorer in the history of the tournament. With Argentina already qualified for the knockout stages, Messi could also be rested for the match, though the prospect of breaking the record may see him feature.
Messi’s World Cup journey began in 2006 as a teenage prodigy, and he has since become the face of the tournament. He scored one goal in the 2006 tournament, none in 2010, four in 2014, six in 2022, and has three already in the 2026 edition. His six goals in the 2022 tournament, including a brace in the final, helped Argentina secure their third World Cup title and cemented his status as one of the greatest players in football history.
Klose, who scored 16 goals across four World Cups for Germany, has held the record since 2014 when he surpassed Ronaldo’s mark of 15. The Brazilian legend had set the record in 2006, but Klose’s longevity and consistency at the tournament level proved remarkable.
The match against Austria also carries significance for Argentina’s quest for back-to-back titles. No nation has won consecutive World Cups since Brazil in 1958 and 1962, a feat that Argentina is now targeting. With Messi in the form of his life and a supporting cast that includes Julian Alvarez, Enzo Fernandez, and Lautaro Martinez, the defending champions remain one of the favourites.
Austria, who secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Saudi Arabia in their previous match, will be determined to spring an upset and secure their place in the knockout stages. They currently sit on three points, level with Saudi Arabia, and will be motivated to make history of their own.
As the football world watches, all eyes will be on Messi’s pursuit of immortality. Can he break the record and lead Argentina to back-to-back titles? The answer awaits in what promises to be a captivating encounter.
