Messi breaks World Cup scoring record with brace as Argentina top Group J

Lionel Messi rewrote the World Cup record books on Tuesday, scoring twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria in a Group J clash in Texas to move to 18 career World Cup goals — two clear of Germany’s Miroslav Klose, who had held the previous record of 16. The result confirmed Argentina’s place in the round of 32 with a perfect six points from two matches.

The milestone prompted an outpouring of admiration from Messi’s teammates, who struggled to find words adequate to the occasion. Alexis Mac Allister was among the first to speak after the final whistle, reflecting on the unique privilege of sharing a dressing room with the 37-year-old.

“He is the best player in the world,” Mac Allister said, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo. “We know that everyone gives their all for Leo. We’ve already won tournaments with him, and it’s important that he’s happy. He does it the way he does, and we’re very grateful for that.”

Leandro Paredes, who has played alongside Messi for both club and country over many years, admitted that familiarity has done nothing to diminish the sense of wonder. “The truth is, you think he’s already given everything, but then he comes along and does something more,” the midfielder said. “He continues to surprise us.”

Lisandro Martinez, who endured a physically demanding evening against a robust Austrian side, was visibly moved by his captain’s latest landmark. The Manchester United defender said: “I feel incredibly excited to have him here every day and that he’s Argentine. There are no words, we can only enjoy him.”

Argentina’s passage to the knockout stages is now assured regardless of the outcome of their final group game against Jordan, though Lionel Scaloni’s side will be targeting a third straight win as they look to defend the World Cup title they claimed in Qatar in 2022.