Dallas: Lionel Messi has become the highest scorer in men’s World Cup history after netting his 17th World Cup goal during Argentina’s Group J clash against Austria.
The historic strike came in the 38th minute when Messi finished off a well-worked attacking move, converting a low cross from Facundo Medina to give Argentina a 1-0 lead. The goal moved him past German legend Miroslav Klose, who previously held the men’s tournament record with 16 goals.
Earlier in the match, Messi missed a chance to break the record from the penalty spot after sending his effort wide. However, the Argentine captain quickly made amends by producing the breakthrough goal later in the first half.
The record-breaking strike also drew Messi level with Brazilian icon Marta, who scored 17 goals in Women’s World Cup tournaments. It was also the sixth consecutive World Cup match in which Messi has found the net.
The achievement comes during Messi’s sixth World Cup appearance and just days before his 39th birthday. The match against Austria marked his 28th World Cup appearance, extending another tournament record and highlighting his remarkable longevity at the highest level of international football.
Argentina entered the fixture after a 3-0 victory over Algeria, where Messi scored a hat-trick to equal Klose’s record. With another milestone now secured, the Argentine star continues to add to one of the most decorated careers in football history.
