Messi broke Klose's record to become the greatest goalscorer in World Cup history.

The football world has just witnessed a historic moment in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup. In the crucial match in Group J, Lionel Messi not only helped Argentina secure an early qualification for the knockout round but also officially set an unprecedented milestone: becoming the player with the most goals in the history of the World Cup.

The king's statement at the 2026 World Cup.

Before the tournament in North America began, the record of 16 goals set by German legend Miroslav Klose was considered one of the most difficult challenges to overcome in world football. However, at the age of 39, Lionel Messi still showed incredible sharpness. His brace against Austria brought "El Pulga's" total goals in this tournament to 18, officially making Klose's record a thing of the past.

The difference between these two legends isn't just in numbers. While Klose was a classic center forward, maximizing his positioning to score 16 goals in 24 matches across 4 World Cups, Messi demonstrated remarkable consistency. The Argentine superstar has played in 28 matches since 2006, scoring in 4 out of 5 tournaments he has participated in (excluding 2010).

Impact analysis: More than just goals

Under coach Lionel Scaloni, Messi not only played the role of a finishing touch but also the soul of the Albiceleste's style of play. Statistics from Opta show the incredible all-around ability of this player. Besides 18 goals, Messi is currently the player who has created the most chances in World Cup history with 76 opportunities created for his teammates.

The evolution from a speedy winger to a game-controlling "number 10" has helped Messi maintain his influence even though his physical condition is no longer at its peak. In this year's tournament, he is showing devastating form with 5 goals in just 2 group stage matches, demonstrating his determination to defend his title with the Argentine national team.

Recognition from the predecessor

Witnessing his record being broken, Miroslav Klose shared his thoughts with respect and objectivity. The former Bayern Munich striker showed no regret; on the contrary, he offered the warmest praise to his successor.

Speaking to Suddeutsche Zeitung, Klose stated: "For me personally, Lionel Messi is the greatest player of all time. What he is achieving on the pitch is unbelievable and completely surpasses all previous limits. My warmest congratulations to the champion; he fully deserves this throne!"

The next heights await Messi's conquest.

Despite already holding the goalscoring record, Messi's ambitions seem far from over. With a place in the round of 32 already secured, the Argentina captain is aiming to break the assist record of the late legend Diego Maradona.

Currently, Messi has 8 assists in World Cup history, equaling the record of "The Golden Boy". With just one more assist, Messi will officially become the greatest player in the tournament's history in both categories: goals and assists. Given the current form of Argentina's attack, it's probably only a matter of time before Messi sets a new record.