Lionel Messi Claims All-Time World Cup Goal Record as Argentina Wins Group J
Argentina legend Lionel Messi has cemented his place as the greatest goalscorer in World Cup history while leading the reigning champions to first place in Group J. The 38-year-old superstar scored both goals in Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria, taking his tournament tally to an astonishing 5 goals in just two matches1.
The victory officially secured Argentina's passage to the Round of 32. Their first-place finish in Group J was finalized shortly after when Algeria defeated Jordan. With Group J wrapped up, Argentina is set to play in the knockout stage on July 3 in Miami, where they are projected to face the runner-up of Group H (currently projected to be underdogs Cape Verde).
Messi's historic scoring tear has positioned him as the clear frontrunner for the Golden Boot, as Argentina looks to defend their global crown in style.
-
An instance of Expanding the footprint of global tournaments quickly dismantles legacy individual scoring records. — The expanded group-stage structure of the tournament gives Messi the extra opportunities needed to secure the World Cup goalscoring record. ↩︎