ARLINGTON — Lionel Messi became the outright leading scorer in men’s World Cup history after scoring twice in Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria on Monday, sending the defending champions into the knockout stage and adding another landmark to his remarkable career.
The Argentina captain struck his 17th and 18th World Cup goals to move clear of former Germany striker Miroslav Klose and claim sole ownership of the tournament’s all-time scoring record.
“Beyond anything I’m so happy for the win,” Messi said. “It was huge, tough and difficult. It would allow us to be relaxed to what’s ahead.”
Messi’s latest record came only six days after his hat trick against Algeria drew him level with Klose on 16 goals.
The 38-year-old endured a frustrating start when he missed a ninth-minute penalty, sending his effort just wide of the right post. But the Argentina captain recovered to break the record in the 38th minute, finishing calmly after a clever attacking move involving Thiago Almada and Facundo Medina.
Messi celebrated by raising his arm toward the crowd at AT&T Stadium as Argentina supporters saluted the historic goal.
“There were moments when I was really angry about missing the penalty, but I was able to make up for it,” Messi said.
His second goal arrived deep into stoppage time after goalkeeper Alexander Schlager blocked his initial effort before Messi converted the rebound through a crowded penalty area.
The goals extended Messi’s scoring streak to six consecutive World Cup matches, matching the achievements of France’s Just Fontaine and Brazil legend Jairzinho.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was once again left searching for words.
“I have no more words to talk about Leo,” Scaloni said.
Messi has now scored all five of Argentina’s goals at the tournament after his hat trick against Algeria in the opening match. Argentina advanced to the round of 32 after winning its first two group-stage matches.
Austria coach Ralf Rangnick acknowledged the challenge of facing the Argentine star.
“We knew that he is on a level of his own, and Lionel Messi showed us today that he’s one of the best, and he is the best,” Rangnick said.
Messi’s latest milestone came two days before his 39th birthday and amid concern over his father Jorge Messi, who is undergoing medical treatment for an undisclosed illness.
The Argentine captain has now played a FIFA-record 28 World Cup matches and continues to rewrite football history in his sixth appearance at the tournament.
“I’m enjoying this moment and craving to enjoy it with my teammates,” Messi said.
Source: Saudi Gazette