Record-breaking Messi surpasses Klose to lead Argentina into last 32 at World Cup 2026

Lionel Messi became the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup history on Wednesday, netting twice against Austria in Dallas to move past Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 goals and carry Argentina into the last 32 of the 2026 World Cup as Group J winners.

Messi’s 17th and 18th World Cup goals came despite the Argentina captain missing a penalty during the match, a blemish that did little to diminish the magnitude of the occasion. The defending champions are through to the knockout rounds, where they will be joined by France and Norway.

Kylian Mbappe and Erling Haaland were again central figures for their respective nations, though both had to contend with weather disruptions. France’s victory over Iraq was delayed by two hours due to the conditions, yet Les Bleus ultimately confirmed their progression alongside an equally clinical Norway side.

Attention now turns to England, who have arrived in Boston ahead of their Group L fixture against Ghana. Thomas Tuchel’s side opened their campaign with an impressive 4-2 win over Croatia, but the England manager is reportedly mindful of a recent tournament pattern in which strong opening performances have been followed by more laboured second outings.

Questions remain over the fitness of Bukayo Saka and the identity of England’s preferred number ten, with Tuchel yet to settle on a definitive answer in that position. A victory against Ghana would be enough to guarantee England top spot in Group L and secure their place in the last 32.