Messi Becomes FIFA World Cup's All-Time Leading Scorer

On Monday, Lionel Messi broke Miroslav Klose's long-standing record to become the FIFA World Cup's all-time leading scorer, achieving his 17th and 18th tournament goals in Argentina's 2-0 win against Austria. The 38-year-old Messi, who plays for Inter Miami, demonstrated his dominance as Argentina secured victory in their group stage clash, ensuring their place in the Round of 32.

Klose previously held the record with 16 goals scored during Germany's victorious 2014 World Cup campaign. Messi had an early chance to surpass Klose in the ninth minute when Lautaro Martínez won a penalty, but Messi's attempt went wide.

He ultimately claimed the record-breaking goal by side-footing a low cross from Facundo Medina into the net. Messi added a second goal in stoppage time, bringing his tournament tally to five goals and extending his record to 28 World Cup appearances.

This latest milestone complements Messi's career achievements, including an Olympic gold medal in 2008 and eight Ballon d'Or awards.