Soccer legend Lionel Messi (39, Inter Miami) is set to challenge another historic record. This time, he is targeting the title of all-time top scorer at the FIFA World Cup.
Argentina will face Austria in their second Group J match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held in North America, at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas, at 2 a.m. Korean time on Tuesday. Having crushed Algeria 3-0 in their opening match, Argentina can secure top spot in their group and early qualification to the round of 32 with a win.
But Messi's personal record is drawing as much attention as the match result. Messi recorded a hat-trick against Algeria, raising his career World Cup goal tally to 16. This put him level with the World Cup top-scoring record held by legendary German striker Miroslav Klose.
Now only one goal remains. If Messi scores against Austria, he will record his 17th career World Cup goal and etch his name in history as the sole top scorer.
Messi raised concerns over a hamstring injury until just before the tournament began, but he proved his fitness against Algeria by showcasing his trademark finishing ability and command of the game. In particular, all three goals came at crucial moments, demonstrating that he remains a world-class striker.
Messi is already regarded as one of the players with the most brilliant career in soccer history. With eight Ballon d'Or awards, four UEFA Champions League titles, and top-scorer titles in major European leagues along with various individual awards, he is the holder of numerous records. He also completed the long-cherished final piece of his national team career by winning the 2022 Qatar World Cup.
In this tournament, there remains the possibility of breaking not only the most World Cup goals record but also the most World Cup wins record. If Argentina beats Austria, Messi will tie the World Cup wins record held by Klose.
Of course, the opponent is no pushover. Austria continued their upward momentum by defeating Jordan 3-1 in their first match. Backed by manager Ralf Rangnick's signature high pressing and organization, they are regarded as a European dark horse, posting 10 wins, one draw, and one loss in their last 12 international matches.
Real Madrid's David Alaba anchors the defense. How effectively the Austrian defense, centered on Alaba, can stop the Argentine attack led by Messi, Lautaro Martinez, and Julian Alvarez is seen as the key to the match.
Meanwhile, anticipation is rising in Argentina for Messi to achieve a new record. In Cutral Co, in the province of Neuquen, a large Messi statue standing 26 meters tall and weighing 70 tons has been erected, ready to commemorate his historic moment.
