Messi breaks World Cup scoring record

Lionel Messi just shattered another record, becoming the all-time leading World Cup scorer with 18 goals, surpassing legends like Miroslav Klose and Marta. Argentina cruised into the knockouts after a 2-0 win over Austria, with Messi scoring both goals—even after missing a penalty early on. At nearly 39 years old, he’s carrying Argentina single-handedly, having scored all five of their World Cup goals so far and leading the race for the Golden Boot. The stats are wild: six straight World Cup matches with a goal, 121 goals in 201 international appearances, and a record 76 chances created at the tournament level.

But here’s the catch—Argentina’s attack is running almost entirely through Messi, and that kind of dependence could be a risk as the competition heats up. He’s missed more World Cup penalties than anyone, and while he often erases the mistake with brilliance from open play, any slip-up could be costly in a knockout match. With family in the stands, tricky personal circumstances, and even a hamstring scare, Messi’s still delivering—but if Argentina can’t find other scorers before the round of 16 clash in Miami, opponents will know exactly who to target.

Featuring insights and reporting from BBC, NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth, and People.com.

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