League: FIFA World Cup Sport: Soccer Country: Global Category: Breaking News

Lionel Messi scores twice, becomes all-time World Cup leading scorer

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 23, 2026, 5:26 AM

Last updated Jun 23, 2026

Lionel Messi scores twice, becomes all-time World Cup leading scorer

Summary

Lionel Messi scored two goals against Austria, setting a new record for the most goals in FIFA World Cup history with 18. Prior to this, he leveled Miroslav Klose at 16 goals after a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina's opening match of the tournament. Following the record-setting performance, Shakira praised Messi on Instagram, expressing pride in his achievements and their significance for Latin America. Messi's continued success adds to the ongoing competitive narrative in the World Cup, especially with Kylian Mbappe close behind at 16 goals.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Messi now holds 18 World Cup goals, surpassing Miroslav Klose.
•He scored a hat-trick against Algeria earlier in the tournament.
•Shakira shared an Instagram tribute expressing support for Messi.
•Kylian Mbappe is currently tied with Klose, having 16 World Cup goals.

Latest Updates

5:26 AMYahoo Sports — Shakira could only say one thing after Lionel Messi made World Cup history

What they're saying

"
Lionel Messi made World Cup history for Argentina on Sunday, and Shakira’s reaction captured just how much the moment meant across the football world. The Colombian superstar took to Instagram after Messi scored twice against Austria to become the leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history.
— Yahoo Sports

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