Lionel Messi became the FIFA World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer on Monday, scoring twice as defending champions Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 to secure a place in the last 32.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner first struck in the 38th minute of the Group J clash in Arlington, Texas, taking his career World Cup tally to 17 goals, surpassing the previous record of 16 held jointly with Germany’s Miroslav Klose.
He later extended the record to 18 goals with a stoppage-time finish, capping a dominant display by the Argentina captain.
Messi, who turns 39 on Wednesday, had earlier missed the chance to break the record when he dragged an eighth-minute penalty wide. However, he made amends before half-time, calmly slotting past Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.
His second goal came deep into stoppage time, sealing Argentina’s victory and taking his tournament tally to five goals, following his hat-trick in their opening 3-0 win over Algeria.
The result guarantees Argentina’s progression to the knockout stages, with the possibility of topping Group J later on Monday if Jordan fail to beat Algeria.
Mbappe targets record milestone
Messi’s record-breaking feat comes as France star Kylian Mbappe prepares to make his 100th international appearance against Iraq in Philadelphia.
Mbappe, 27, said the milestone would be “special” as it comes at a World Cup, where he currently shares second place on the all-time scoring list for active players with Germany legend Gerd Müller on 14 goals.
France, runners-up to Argentina in the 2022 final, are expected to secure qualification for the knockout stage, although weather forecasts predict possible thunderstorms in Philadelphia.
Norway striker Erling Haaland also remains in contention for progression after scoring twice in his side’s opening 4-1 win over Iraq. Norway will qualify from Group I if they beat Senegal, while France defeat Iraq.
German defender Nico Schlotterbeck has, however, been ruled out of the tournament after suffering ligament damage in his left ankle during his side’s 2-1 win over Ivory Coast.
Cape Verde impress as Spain rebound
Elsewhere, Spain returned to winning ways with a 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia, while World Cup debutants Cape Verde earned a surprise 2-2 draw against Uruguay.
Cape Verde coach Bubista said his team were now targeting a historic place in the knockout rounds, a prospect he described as unthinkable before the tournament.
“We want to show the entire world that we are capable of competing for qualification, and I think we demonstrated that today,” he said.
Belgium are still searching for their first win after a 0-0 draw with Iran in Group G. The Red Devils, who also drew their opening match against Egypt, finished the game in Los Angeles with 10 men against a disciplined Iranian side.
Iran’s players drew attention after the match by leaving a handwritten message calling for peace, respect and friendship among nations.
Egypt, meanwhile, moved top of their group after securing their first-ever World Cup victory, a 3-1 comeback win over New Zealand.
AFP
