Lionel Messi struck twice in Argentina’s second World Cup match against Austria to move into outright first place on the tournament’s all-time scoring list and help his side to a 2-0 win.
His opener came in trademark fashion, a left-footed finish that set the tone early and placed Argentina in control. Later, he added a second from close range in a crowded six-yard box to complete a decisive performance.
The goals took his tally to 18 in World Cup finals, moving him past former Germany striker Miroslav Klose, who held the record on 16.
Becoming the World Cup all-time leading scorer was another milestone in a tournament where Messi has already set the pace.
He opened the campaign with a hat-trick and has now scored in successive matches, extending a run that places him among a small group of players to find the net in six consecutive World Cup games.
Messi is also closing in on another major mark, with his creative output putting him within touching distance of the all-time assists record at the finals, according to Opta.
He currently shares that benchmark with Diego Maradona.
With Argentina defending their title and a third group game against Jordan still to come, Messi is already in contention for the Golden Boot, a prize he has never won despite his long list of individual honours.
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