Messi Breaks World Cup Record: Argentina Star Scores 18th Goal

Messi Makes History as Argentina Advances in World Cup 2026

Lionel Messi cemented his legacy as the greatest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history on June 23, 2026, netting a brace to lead Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. With his 18th and 19th career World Cup goals, the 39-year-old surpassed German legend Miroslav Klose (16 goals) to become the tournament's all-time top scorer, while also guiding the defending champions into the Round of 32.

The match, part of Group J's second round of fixtures, saw Messi overcome an early missed penalty to deliver a vintage performance. He opened the scoring in the 38th minute with a clinical left-footed finish after a slick combination involving Facundo Medina and Thiago Almada, then sealed the victory in second-half stoppage time with a poacher's goal after relentless pressure. The win ensured Argentina finished top of Group J with six points, joining the likes of Portugal's World Cup campaign in advancing to the knockout phase.

Record-Breaking Night in Dallas

Messi's double not only broke Klose's long-standing record but also added to an astonishing list of achievements. According to Guinness World Records, the Argentine captain now holds the records for most World Cup goals (18), most World Cup appearances (28), most World Cup wins (18), and most minutes played in World Cup history (2,489). He also became the tournament's current top scorer with five goals, ahead of France's Kylian Mbappé and Norway's Erling Haaland, who have four each.

"It's a dream to keep making history with this shirt," Messi said after the match. "We came here to defend our title, and every record is a bonus. The team is united and focused." Argentina's goalkeeper Emiliano 'Dibu' Martínez also made a crucial save from Marcel Sabitzer's free kick, preserving the clean sheet.

Ronaldo Makes History of His Own

Earlier on Tuesday, Cristiano Ronaldo became the first male player to score in six different World Cups, netting twice in Portugal's 3-0 victory over Uzbekistan at NRG Stadium in Houston. The 41-year-old opened the scoring in the 6th minute and added a second in the 39th, with Nuno Mendes also scoring a free kick. Ronaldo's goals — his first of the 2026 tournament — took his World Cup tally to 10, surpassing Eusébio as Portugal's all-time leading scorer in the competition.

The win was crucial for Portugal after a disappointing 1-1 draw with DR Congo in their opener. Group K remains wide open, with Colombia also securing a 3-1 win over DR Congo later in the day in Guadalajara. The result sets up a decisive final group match between Portugal and Colombia.

England, Colombia Secure Knockout Spots

In Group L, England defeated Ghana 2-1 at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, with Harry Kane scoring his third goal of the tournament. The win guaranteed England's place in the Round of 32. Meanwhile, Croatia kept their hopes alive with a 2-0 victory over Panama in Toronto, keeping the group wide open heading into the final matchday. Colombia's 3-1 triumph over DR Congo, powered by goals from Daniel Muñoz and Luis Díaz, also secured their passage to the knockout stage.

The day's results mean that four of the eight matches in the second round of group games have now been completed, with the tournament's 2026 World Cup knockout bracket beginning to take shape. The Round of 32 is set to commence on June 28.

Sofi Martínez: The Voice Behind the Coverage

Covering the tournament for Argentine broadcaster Telefe is Sofi Martínez, the 33-year-old sports journalist who became a household name after her emotional interview with Messi during the 2022 World Cup. Martínez, who studied journalism at DeporTEA and previously worked for ESPN and TV Pública, is part of Telefe's star-studded commentary team alongside Juan Pablo Varsky and Pablo Giralt.

"Covering a World Cup is a roller coaster of emotions," Martínez told BigBang News in a recent interview. "You combine the privilege of being close to the protagonists with the exhaustion of constant travel between venues. But every moment is worth it for the passion we feel." Martínez has been reporting from fan fests across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, highlighting the human stories behind the tournament. Her coverage has included viral moments such as teaching foreign fans to dance Argentine cumbia, showcasing the cultural exchange that the World Cup fosters.

Martínez's rise in sports journalism is notable in a field historically dominated by men. She has spoken openly about the challenges of being a woman in football media, the harassment she faced after her Messi interview went viral, and her decision to freeze her eggs at 32 to preserve the option of motherhood. Beyond the World Cup, she has also taken on new roles as the digital host of La Voz Argentina, demonstrating her versatility across sports and entertainment.

What's Next for Argentina and the World Cup

Argentina will face Jordan on June 27 in their final group match, though with qualification already secured, manager Lionel Scaloni is expected to rotate the squad. The team's path to a potential final in New York/New Jersey could include meetings with Germany, Brazil, or host nation Mexico. Messi, who turns 40 in 2027, has hinted that this will be his final World Cup, adding emotional weight to every performance.

The tournament continues on June 24 with matches including Spain vs. Saudi Arabia, Mexico vs. Czech Republic, and Brazil vs. Morocco. As the group stage enters its decisive phase, World Cup 2026 predictions are shifting, with Argentina, England, and Portugal emerging as early favorites.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the all-time top scorer in World Cup history?

Lionel Messi now holds the record with 18 goals, surpassing Miroslav Klose's 16 goals. He broke the record on June 23, 2026, with a brace against Austria.

Did Cristiano Ronaldo score at the 2026 World Cup?

Yes, Ronaldo scored twice in Portugal's 3-0 win over Uzbekistan on June 23, becoming the first male player to score in six different World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026).

How many goals has Messi scored in the 2026 World Cup?

As of June 23, 2026, Messi has scored five goals in the tournament — three against Algeria and two against Austria — making him the current Golden Boot leader.

Who is Sofi Martínez?

Sofi Martínez is an Argentine sports journalist covering the 2026 World Cup for Telefe. She gained fame for her viral interview with Lionel Messi during the 2022 World Cup and has worked for ESPN, TV Pública, and various radio shows.

When does the World Cup Round of 32 start?

The Round of 32 (knockout stage) begins on June 28, 2026, following the conclusion of the group stage on June 27.

Sources

Information compiled from FIFA, ESPN, Infobae, Olé, BigBang News, Guinness World Records, and official match reports. For further details, visit FIFA's official World Cup 2026 site.