History Rewritten: Lionel Messi Breaks 4 Historic World Cup Records to Seal Argentina’s Knockout Spot
Lionel Messi cemented his status as the greatest of all time on Monday, breaking four historic World Cup records as his brilliant brace guided defending champions Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria, securing their spot in the Round of 32.
With his twin goals in the Group J clash, the 39-year-old maestro officially became the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, overtaking German icon Miroslav Klose’s long-standing record of 16 goals. Messi had previously equaled Klose’s tally with a stunning hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina’s opening match.
Late in the first half, Messi broke the deadlock with a trademark clinical left-footed finish following a slick build-up. He later added a second to bring his career World Cup tally to an unprecedented 18 goals across a record-extending six tournament appearances.
The New Guinness World Records
Following his masterclass, Guinness World Records took to social media to celebrate Messi adding four all-time tournament milestones to his legendary resume:
| Record Broken | New All-Time High |
| Most FIFA World Cup goals by a player | 18 |
| Most FIFA World Cup matches played | 28 |
| Most FIFA World Cup match wins by a player | 18 |
| Most minutes played in the FIFA World Cup | 2,489 |
Early Drama and Redemption
The historic night did not start smoothly for the Argentine captain. In the 9th minute, a VAR intervention confirmed a foul on striker Lautaro Martínez, who was sandwiched by two Austrian defenders in the penalty box. Amid a deafening wall of noise, Messi stepped up to the spot, but his slow run-up resulted in a weak effort that dragged wide of the post.
The miss echoed past tournaments—notably his saved penalty against Poland’s Wojciech Szczęsny during Argentina’s triumphant 2022 campaign, and another miss in 2018.
However, Messi redeemed himself before the break, turning the tide and completely deflating the Austrian challenge.
“There is not much to say about Leo,” fellow forward Julián Álvarez said after the match, as fans chanted Messi’s name throughout the stadium concourses. “More than 20 years being the best in the world—he is the best in history.”
Peace of Mind for the Champions
With six points secured from their opening two matches, Argentina has comfortably booked their ticket to the knockout rounds with one group-stage game left to play.
Reflecting on the grueling encounter, Messi expressed relief at securing early qualification.
“Very happy for the victory. It was very important, hard, hard, hard, and it gives us peace of mind for what is to come,” Messi told broadcasters. “The match was even, intense, and we are happy to get six points.”
