Lionel Messi levelled Miroslav Klose’s record of 16 World Cup goals last week but the Argentina icon has now gone one better against Austria with another goal18:39, 22 Jun 2026Updated 18:57, 22 Jun 2026Lionel Messi is now the leading goalscorer in World Cup history after scoring his 17th goal at the tournament. The Argentina icon had drawn level with Germany legend Miroslav Klose with his hat-trick against Algeria.‌But he has now gone one better, having found the net in the South American’s second group game against Austria.‌The veteran eventually got his goal after latching onto a low cross, which was dummied by Rodrigo de Paul, and hammering the ball past Alexander Schlager.‌Messi actually had the perfect opportunity to claim the record for his own before that, after Argentina were handed an early penalty following a VAR review. But he fired his spot-kick wide.But in the end, he netted in his sixth World Cup game in succession, which represents another stunning record.Messi's record-breaking strike comes after he spoke out on his ambitions to be at the top of the tree. Speaking after his treble against Algeria, he said: "Honestly, no [I don't attach importance to the record]. It's an honour to be there because of what it means to be there next to Klose, Ronaldo is there too, but I don't think it means anything.‌"Mbappe is there, he scored two today. It's a statistic and nothing more. While it's an honour to be able to compete with all of them, it doesn't mean anything to me. Ronaldo, from what I saw, was one of the greatest and he's not in first place, so it all comes down to a statistic."Messi was left in tears after his record-equalling goal last week and it has since been revealed that his Dad, Jorge, is unwell. A statement from the Messi family last week read: "He is currently under medical supervision, recovering, and progressing favorably within his current condition."Given the versions, rumors, and speculation that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep displeasure at the lack of sensitivity, respect, and scruples with which some people have treated a strictly private and family matter.‌"The family also wishes to clarify that only his closest family members have accurate and reliable information about Jorge's condition. Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come from the family itself and its official channels should not be considered valid or true. At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence, and compassion."A person's health and the peace of mind of those around them should not be subject to speculation or irresponsible media interest. We sincerely appreciate the expressions of affection, respect, and concern received, and we request that the privacy, confidentiality, and intimacy of Jorge and his entire family be respected during this process. Any relevant updates will be communicated promptly by the family and through the appropriate channels."Article continues belowMessi and Argentina will round off their World Cup group campaign against Jordan.Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.