Lionel Messi sets all-time World Cup goals record with Argentina's opener against Austria (video)

Lionel Messi has given Argentina a lead and himself a place alone atop the record books with his 17th career World Cup goal.

The goal came in the 39th minute and was his fourth of the tournament to take him past Germany's Miroslav Klose for the most goals in a World Cup career.

MORE — World Cup Golden Boot race — top goal scorers

Messi, perhaps ironically, had missed a penalty and a couple other opportunities early thanks to brave defending and timely goalkeeping, but an Austria turnover led Argentina to their opener.

It was a late-arriving run for Messi and a sweet finish with his left foot.

Lionel Messi sets all-time World Cup goals record (video)

¡¡¡GOL DE LIONEL MESSI!!! ¡¡¡EL MÁXIMO ANOTADOR EN LA HISTORIA DE LOS MUNDIALES!!!

Espectacular definición de Leo para poner a Argentina arriba sobre Austria, ¡El gol #17! ¡RÉCORD! ¡LEYENDA TOTAL! pic.twitter.com/VlLOgROoC2

— Telemundo Deportes (@TelemundoSports) June 22, 2026