Despite missing an early penalty, the 38-year-old finished in typical Messi fashion, slotting home for his 17th World Cup goal, moving ahead of Miroslav Klose, who held the record since 2014. He then scored late in the game for his 18th World Cup goal, capping off a remarkable evening as Argentina won 2-0 to qualify for the knockout stage.
Messi, who turns 39 in two days, has now scored in six consecutive World Cup matches.
The Argentine had scored a hat-trick in his side's opening 3-0 win over Algeria to go level with Klose.
Messi is also one assist away from becoming the leading assist-maker in World Cup history, currently tied with fellow Argentine great Diego Maradona (8).
FIFA World Cup 2026
The 2026 World Cup took place from June 11th to July 19th in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament featured 48 national teams and was won by Spain, who beat Argentina in the final.
Full schedule and results | Group standings and bracket | Past winners of the tournament | Our team of the tournament | About the 2030 World Cup