Argentine legend Lionel Messi created history on Monday, as he became the leading goal-scorer in the history of the FIFA World Cup after surpassing German legend Miroslav Klose. It is another addition to Lionel Messi record book, which is huge, but this one is very special.
Defending champions Argentina faced Austria in their second Group J match of the FIFA World Cup 2026. Although Messi missed a penalty early in the game, he scored a goal in the first half. It was his fourth goal in the ongoing World Cup 2026 and 17th goal in the tournament history.
Lionel Messi Quiz #1: Test Your Knowledge with 5 Questions
Lionel Messi Record: Breaks Miroslav Klose’s 12-year-old record
In the FIFA World Cup 2014, German forward Miroslav Klose broke Brazilian legend Ronaldo’s record for the most World Cup goals (15 goals) by scoring 16 goals in the World Cup. After 12 years, Argentine legend Lionel Messi set a new record.
During the stoppage time in the second half, Messi scored his second goal of the match, as the legend has scored 18 goals in the World Cup. With more goals, Messi will recreate new history. Talking about the danger of this Lionel Messi record, French star Kylian Mbappe is chasing sharply.
Lionel Messi Quiz #2: Can You Score 5/5 on Messi’s Career?
Most goals in FIFA World Cup
Lionel Messi (Argentina): 18 goals
Miroslav Klose (Germany): 16 goals
Ronaldo (Brazil): 15 goals
Gerd Müller (West Germany): 14 goals
Kylian Mbappe (France): 14 goals
*Record updated till the end of the Argentina vs Austria match in the FIFA World Cup 2026
Lionel Messi goals in World Cup (Year Wise)
2006: 1 goal
2010: 0 goals
2014: 4 goals
2018: 1 goal
2022: 7 goals
2026: 5 goals*
*Messi can add more goals in World Cup 2026
How many goals has Messi scored in World Cup?
Lionel Messi holds the record for most FIFA World Cup goals, as the Argentine legend has scored 18 World Cup goals as of 22 June 2026. This incredible Lionel Messi record can only rise.