Messi overtakes Klose as World Cup's top goalscorer with 18 goals

Lionel Messi scored 18 goals in FIFA World Cup tournaments, surpassing Miroslav Klose's record, after a brace in Argentina's 2–0 win over Austria on 22 June 2026.

By Belfast Herald Sport1 min read

Email Report an error

Image not availableNot all original photographs have been retained in the digital archive.

Lionel Messi scored his 17th World Cup goal in the 38th minute, surpassing Miroslav Klose's record of 16. He completed his 18th goal in stoppage time, sealing Argentina's 2–0 win over Austria.

The first goal came from a left-footed finish after a pass from Facundo Medina. The second was scored after a scramble in the box, with Messi outmaneuvering four defenders.

Messi missed a penalty in the ninth minute, which was awarded after a VAR review. He had previously missed a penalty in the 2022 World Cup and another in 2018.