Messi Sets New World Cup Records Against Austria

In the group stage match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Argentina, the defending champions, secured a 2-0 victory against Austria, with Lionel Messi scoring both goals. This performance allowed Messi to break several records, as highlighted by the Guinness World Records (GWR).

Messi's brace brought his total World Cup goals to 18, surpassing the previous record of 16 held by Germany's Miroslav Klose. Additionally, Messi achieved the milestone of playing in 28 World Cup matches, becoming the first player to score in six different World Cups.

Despite missing a penalty earlier in the game, Messi's contributions were pivotal in Argentina's success in the tournament, which is being hosted in North America. The match further solidified Messi's legacy as he continues to redefine longevity at the highest level of international football since his debut in the tournament in 2006.