Messi surpasses Klose as World Cup's all-time top scorer in Argentina's win over Austria

Lionel Messi has broken Miroslav Klose's record to become the highest-scoring player in World Cup history, netting his 17th career goal during Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner added another goal in stoppage time to secure the win, which also sent the defending champions into the round of 32, according to FourFourTwo. Messi had started the tournament three goals behind Klose's tally of 16 but quickly equaled and surpassed the record with a hat-trick against Algeria and then the landmark goal against Austria, SportBible reported. "Messi breaks all-time World Cup scoring record with 17th goal in Argentina's win over Austria" The achievement cements his legacy as one of soccer's greatest players, n.pr reported. However, the milestone has not been without controversy. Former Manchester United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel claimed that Messi's record-breaking goal should have been disallowed due to an alleged foul by Alexis Mac Allister in the buildup, according to the Mirror. Klose himself acknowledged Messi's feat with grace, sending a heartfelt message to the Argentine legend, SportBible noted. Messi reflected on the record after the match, suggesting his penalty miss may have helped the team, and praised the special bond within the Argentina squad and with their traveling supporters as they pursue a second consecutive world title in his sixth World Cup appearance, Goal.com reported. "Messi becomes World Cup all-time top scorer as Argentina beats Austria to reach 2026 knockout rounds" Messi scored all five of Argentina's unanswered goals across their matches against Algeria and Austria, FourFourTwo highlighted, continuing his record-breaking achievements just before his 39th birthday. The victory keeps Argentina on track for another deep tournament run as they aim to defend their crown.

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