ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) β Lionel Messi added another milestone to his legendary career on June 20, 2026, scoring twice in Argentina's 4-1 victory over Canada in the World Cup group stage. The goals moved him past the previous record held by Miroslav Klose, making him the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history with 18 goals.
Messi, 39, is playing in his sixth World Cup, a feat achieved by only a handful of players. His first goal came from a free kick in the 23rd minute, and he added a second in the 55th minute with a clinical finish from inside the box. The Argentina captain also provided an assist for Lautaro Martinez's goal.
The record was previously held by Germany's Miroslav Klose, who scored 16 goals across four World Cups from 2002 to 2014. Messi surpassed that total with his performance in the 2022 World Cup, where he scored seven goals to lead Argentina to the title, and has now extended his lead with two more in 2026.
Argentina, the defending champions, are looking to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups. Messi's form has been crucial, as he has now scored in three consecutive World Cup matches dating back to the 2022 final against France.
