Lionel Messi makes history, becomes World Cup’s all-time top scorer
Lionel Messi has broken the World Cup's all-time scoring record, cementing his legacy as one of football's greatest players.
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Argentinian football icon Lionel Messi has officially made history as the FIFA World Cup's all-time leading goal scorer. On June 22, 2026, Messi netted his 17th career World Cup goal during Argentina's group stage match against Austria in the ongoing 2026 tournament, solidifying his place at the top of the prestigious list.
This monumental achievement saw the 38-year-old superstar surpass German legend Miroslav Klose, who previously held the record with 16 goals. Messi's record-breaking goal comes just days after he equaled Klose's tally with a hat-trick against Algeria earlier in the 2026 World Cup. This milestone further cements his legacy in football, marking his appearance in a record sixth World Cup tournament.
What each outlet emphasizes
- CNN: Lionel Messi makes history as the World Cup’s all-time top scorer
- BBC: Messi becomes World Cup all-time leading scorer - how has he stayed at the top?
- AJ: Messi grabs brace to make World Cup history and send Argentina into last 16; Messi breaks World Cup's all-time scoring record with 17th goal
- The Guardian: Argentina 2-0 Austria Irrepressible Messi breaks World Cup scoring record; Analysis: National treasure Messi stands alone at goalscoring pinnacle
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theguardian.com ↗ olympics.com ↗ intermiamicf.com ↗ ynetnews.com ↗ hola.com ↗