“Argentina’s Lionel Messi is one of the few players in World Cup history to score in six consecutive tournaments, and he’s one goal away from breaking the all-time record for World Cup goals. According to The Athletic, Messi scored his 16th World Cup goal in a 3-0 victory over Algeria on June 16, 2026, putting him level with Miroslav Klose. The Dallas News reports that Messi could break the record when he faces Austria on June 22, 2026, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington.”
Messi’s Record-Breaking Chase and the World Cup Stage
Lionel Messi’s pursuit of the World Cup scoring record has become a focal point of the 2026 tournament, with the 38-year-old Argentina star poised to overtake Miroslav Klose’s 16-goal mark. According to the Dallas News, Messi’s 16th goal in the 3-0 win against Algeria on June 16, 2026, placed him level with the German legend, setting the stage for a historic moment against Austria. The article notes that a goal in his sixth straight World Cup match would cement his place as the tournament’s all-time leading scorer.
The pressure is palpable. Kylian Mbappé, who scored twice against Senegal, is just two goals behind Messi, but the French star’s youth (27 years old) and the context of his third World Cup contrast sharply with Messi’s longevity. The Dallas News highlights that Mbappé’s pace could eventually surpass both Klose and Messi, but for now, the spotlight remains on the Argentine.
How Messi Still Shines at 38
Despite his age, Messi’s performance against Algeria underscored why he remains a dominant force. The New York Times describes how he “looked as good as ever,” scoring a hat-trick in his 200th international appearance. Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, expressed awe at Messi’s consistency, telling The Athletic: “We’re still amazed by him even though we get to see him on a daily basis, and he’s been the best for 20 years.”
Scaloni’s admiration is echoed by former teammates. Xavi, speaking to The Athletic, marveled at Messi’s physicality: “When you look at Leo, he hasn’t changed. Physically, he’s still the same, still fit. Look at the way his feet still move, that fast little shuffle: tsk, tsk, tsk. How is that possible?”
Even opponents are stunned. Erling Haaland, who scored against Iraq, posted an Instagram photo of himself in disbelief, captioning it: “Messi is a madman.” The New York Times notes that such reactions are not new—Messi’s 2022 World Cup triumph, which came after his Barcelona exit, already cemented his status as a once-in-a-generation talent.
The Impact of Messi’s MLS Move
While Messi’s on-field brilliance grabs headlines, his decision to join Inter Miami in 2023 has also drawn scrutiny. AP News argues that the move has been a “masterstroke,” allowing Messi to maintain his form while boosting U.S. soccer’s profile. The article quotes Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, who said: “Leo will be the best for as long as he wants; he has been doing it every single match for the last 20 years.”
The AP report contrasts Messi’s reduced workload in MLS with his earlier European grind. At Barcelona, he played over 50 games a season; in the U.S., he has competed in fewer matches, which analysts suggest has preserved his energy. “I love to play, to compete. And no matter where it is, today I find myself at another World Cup, which brings extra happiness,” Messi told the AP.
This strategic shift has paid dividends. Messi’s performance in the 2026 World Cup—highlighted by his hat-trick against Algeria—suggests that the move has not diluted his quality. In fact, it may have extended his peak.
What’s Next for Messi and Argentina?
The immediate focus is on Messi’s record attempt against Austria. The Dallas News notes that a goal in that match would make him the first player to score in six World Cup tournaments, a feat he shares with Cristiano Ronaldo. However, the stakes extend beyond individual glory. Argentina’s campaign hinges on Messi’s leadership, as highlighted by Fox Sports analyst Alexi Lalas: “It was something to behold. We should be used to this, but if you ever needed any more confirmation that when it comes to Argentina, Messi is the system, he is the tactic, he’s the formation, he’s the identity and he is the heart.”
The broader question is whether Messi’s presence can secure a second consecutive World Cup title. His 2022 triumph was a redemption arc after years of near misses, and his continued excellence raises the bar. As the New York Times puts it, “For the sake of football, he has to be there. It’s not me who decides. It’s up to him, his state of mind, his physical condition.”
The Legacy of a Living Legend
Messi’s journey has always been about defying expectations. In 2022, he told reporters, “Anyone else would have retired after winning it in 2022,” yet here he is, still dazzling at 38. His ability to adapt—whether to a new league, a new team, or a new era of soccer—has redefined what’s possible for a player of his caliber.
As the World Cup progresses, the narrative will shift from whether Messi can break the record to whether he can lead Argentina to glory. Either way, his impact is undeniable. As Xavi said, “I could stay here with you for over an hour trying to explain what he does,” but the truth is, some moments can only be witnessed, not explained.
“According to The Athletic, Messi’s 16th World Cup goal against Algeria placed him level with Miroslav Klose. The Dallas News reports that he could break the record against Austria on June 22, 2026. AP News highlights his move to Inter Miami as a strategic decision that has preserved his form.”
“According to The New York Times, Messi’s hat-trick against Algeria showcased his enduring brilliance. The article includes quotes from Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, and former teammate Xavi, both praising his physicality and impact.
Find more reporting in our Sport news section.
Related reading
