Lionel Messi continues to defy age and expectations at this FIFA World Cup, rewriting the record books as he approaches his 39th birthday. The Argentina captain has become the highest goalscorer in World Cup history, surpassing German legend Miroslav Klose, whose tally of 16 goals had stood since the 2014 tournament.
Messi reached the landmark in style, following up his hat-trick against Algeria with a brace against Austria. His five goals in the opening two matches have taken his overall World Cup tally to 18 and placed him at the top of the scoring charts.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has been in outstanding form, once again proving why he remains one of the game's defining figures. Despite leaving European football for MLS in 2023, Messi has shown that his quality, influence and eye for goal remain as sharp as ever on the biggest stage.
Former World Cup record-holder Klose was among the first to congratulate Messi after the Argentine surpassed his long-standing mark. The German great, who held the record for more than a decade, had nothing but praise for Messi, hailing him as the greatest player he has ever seen.
"I've always said Messi is no slouch," the 48-year-old said as quoted on Goal. "For me, Leo is the best footballer of all time! Congratulations, champion!"
