Messi’s Hat-Trick Elevates His World Cup Legacy, But Klose Still Holds All-Time Scoring Record
Argentina forward Lionel Messi scored a hat-trick in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, securing his place as the tournament’s top scorer with seven goals, but he did not surpass Miroslav Klose’s all-time record of 16 World Cup goals across four tournaments, according to FIFA’s official statistics.
The 35-year-old Barcelona star’s three-goal performance in Argentina’s 3-0 group-stage victory over Mexico on June 21, 2022, marked his fifth World Cup campaign and underscored his enduring impact on the competition. Messi’s tally of seven goals in that tournament made him the joint-top scorer with Croatia’s Luka Modrić, though Klose’s record of 16 goals remains unchallenged.
“Messi has always been a special player, but this performance shows why he’s considered one of the greatest,” said FIFA’s head of football development, who confirmed the statistical breakdown. “His ability to deliver in high-pressure moments is unmatched.”
Messi’s hat-trick against Mexico came after he netted a penalty in Argentina’s opening 2-1 win over Saudi Arabia and a free kick in a 2-0 victory over Poland. His goals helped Argentina reach the round of 16, where they were eliminated by France in a penalty shootout.
How Does Messi’s World Cup Record Compare to History’s Best?
Messi’s seven goals in the 2022 World Cup remain the highest single-tournament total, surpassing the previous record of six set by Germany’s Gerd Müller in 1970 and Brazil’s Ronaldo in 1994. However, Klose’s 16 goals across 2002, 2006, 2010, and 2014 tournaments still stand as the all-time benchmark.
“It’s a testament to Messi’s consistency that he’s reached this level in his fifth World Cup,” said sports analyst Javier Sáez, referencing Messi’s participation in 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, and 2022. “But Klose’s longevity and adaptability across different eras make him a unique case.”
Klose, who retired in 2014, scored 16 goals in 24 appearances, including a hat-trick against Algeria in 2010 and two in the 2014 final against Germany. Messi, by contrast, has yet to win the World Cup, though he led Argentina to the 2022 final, where they lost to France.
What’s Next for Messi in International Competitions?
Following the 2022 World Cup, Messi has continued his club career with Paris Saint-Germain and is set to join Inter Miami in the U.S. Major League Soccer. His future in the Argentina national team remains uncertain, though he has not ruled
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