'I'm Very Tired' — Messi Breaks World Cup Scoring Record In Argentina Win Over Austria

Messi sets all-time World Cup goal record with brace as Argentina reach knockouts

Messi's stoppage-time goal sealed Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria and broke the overall World Cup scoring record. With 6 points from 2 games, Argentina are already through to the last 32.

38-year-old Messi breaks Marta's record, sends Argentina into World Cup knockouts...

Lionel Messi set the record for most World Cup goals ever on Monday. When asked which strike was his favorite and how it felt to break the mark, the 38-year-old kept it simple: “I’m very tired.”

Argentina’s captain missed a penalty, but still scored twice and extended his scoring streak at World Cups to six games. His goals sealed a gritty 2-0 win over Austria and booked their place in the knockout rounds.

Messi’s opener came from a first-time finish off Facundo Medina’s low cross, putting him level with Brazil’s Marta on 17 World Cup goals across both men’s and women’s tournaments. His stoppage-time second pushed him past her and set a new all-time record.

“I'm very happy with the win,” ⁠Messi said. “It was a hugely important victory, a tough one, and one we worked hard for. It gives us calm for what's coming.”

The night would’ve been easier if he’d scored the first-half penalty, but Messi said Argentina could still feel good about how they controlled the match after Austria came out stronger after halftime.

“The truth is that the way it turned out today was spectacular,” he said. “I had the penalty that could have increased the lead, but ‌I'm happy with the result and with the team's work.”

Messi, who turns 39 later this week, now has five goals at this World Cup. With six points from two Group J games, Argentina have already secured a spot in the Round of 32 with one match left.