The single sharpest fact in one or two punchy sentences. Who did what, where, when, and why it matters. Not a summary of everything — the one thing that makes someone stop scrolling. A reader who only reads this paragraph must understand what happened.

Lionel Messi, the Argentine football legend, has broken the outright all-time World Cup scoring record, netting his 17th and 18th goals in the tournament as Argentina comfortably beat Austria 2-0 on Monday. The feat, which comes with just 15 minutes remaining in the match, marks a remarkable achievement for Messi, who has been a key player in Argentina's successful World Cup campaign. Messi's record-breaking strike came in the 38th minute, when he latched onto a through ball from teammate Nicolás González and slotted past Austria goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann with ease.

The post-match celebration was a testament to Messi's incredible talent and dedication to the sport, as Argentina's players and fans alike hailed the 35-year-old as a hero. With this victory, Argentina have now qualified for the knockout stages, where they will face off against the winner of the Group F match between Poland and Saudi Arabia.

### How Messi's goal was a masterclass in skill and precision

Messi's goal was a masterclass in skill and precision, showcasing the Argentine's incredible ball control and finishing ability. The move began with a simple pass from González, which Messi picked up with ease and took a few steps to his left to get away from his marker.

With no one on his shoulder, Messi then took a few more steps to his right, creating space for himself to shoot. And in that moment of space, he unleashed a shot that flew past Bachmann and into the net.

### What the victory means for Argentina

Argentina's victory has sent shockwaves through the football world, with many pundits hailing Messi's achievement as one of the greatest in World Cup history. For Messi, the record-breaking goal has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest players of all time, and will undoubtedly go down in history as one of the most memorable moments of the tournament.

### More to follow...

Argentina's next match will be against the winner of the Group F match between Poland and Saudi Arabia, with the victor advancing to the knockout stages.

### Key Facts

  • Total goals scored by Messi in the World Cup: 18
  • Total games played by Messi in the World Cup: 22
  • Average goals per game for Messi in the World Cup: 0.82
  • Argentina's next match: June 27, 2026, against the winner of the Group F match between Poland and Saudi Arabia