Messi Dethrones Klose to Become the All-Time Top Scorer in World Cup History
Lionel Messi scored his 17th World Cup goal against Austria, surpassing Miroslav Klose's all-time record of 16 and cementing his place as the greatest player in the tournament's history.
In a moment that will be replayed for generations, Lionel Messi curled a direct free-kick into the top corner against Austria in the 67th minute, scoring his 17th World Cup goal and surpassing Miroslav Klose's all-time record.
The Record
Klose's tally of 16 goals across four tournaments (1998–2014) had stood as one of football's most formidable records for over a decade. Many tried and failed. Messi, at 39 years old, erased it with characteristic precision and drama.
- 🇩🇪 Miroslav Klose: 16 goals (1998–2014) — former record
- 🇦🇷 Lionel Messi: 17 goals (2006–2026) — new record
Twenty Years in the Making
Messi's World Cup journey began in 2006 as a 19-year-old. The missing piece — the trophy — arrived in 2022. Now, at 39, he writes another extraordinary chapter in an odyssey without precedent.
Reactions
"I dedicate this to every child who ever dreamed of wearing the Argentina shirt. This goal belongs to all of Argentina." — Messi post-match
Klose himself responded with a gracious message on social media, congratulating Messi in a widely praised display of sportsmanship. Buenos Aires erupted in celebration.
