Lionel Messi is about to do something nobody has ever done in World Cup history. He needs one more goal to pass Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading scorer in the tournament’s history. And given the way he’s playing right now, it feels less like a question and more like an inevitability.
Messi has scored 16 goals across six World Cups. Klose has 16 from four. That’s where they sit tied at the top. But Messi’s form in this tournament has been ridiculous. He dropped a hat trick in his last match against Algeria. So the idea of him scoring again tonight against Austria isn’t just possible. It’s expected.
What’s on the line
This isn’t just some record for the sake of a record. Klose’s mark has stood since 2014, when he passed Ronaldo Nazario in Brazil. Most people figured it would last a long time. But Messi, at 39 years old, is still chasing it. That alone is wild. Most players his age are either retired or playing in less competitive leagues. He’s still out here rewriting history on the biggest stage.
Argentina came into this World Cup as defending champions. They’ve looked strong so far. Messi has been the focal point of their attack, obviously. But the team around him has stepped up too. Julian Alvarez and Enzo Fernandez have given them depth they didn’t have in previous tournaments. Still, all eyes are on No. 10.
Can Austria stop him?
Austria isn’t a pushover. They’ve got a solid defensive structure and they’ll know exactly what’s at stake. Every team that faces Argentina in this tournament knows Messi is the primary threat. That hasn’t stopped him yet. He’s scored against every kind of defense you can imagine. Tight marking, deep blocks, high pressure. None of it has worked over the years.
If he scores tonight, the record becomes his alone. And honestly, considering how many World Cups he’s played in and how consistently he’s produced, it’s a testament to his longevity more than anything else. Klose was a pure striker who lived in the box. Messi is a playmaker who also happens to be the greatest scorer of his generation. Different styles, same result.
Kickoff is in about 90 minutes. The stadium will be buzzing. Argentina fans know they’re watching something special. History doesn’t wait long in situations like this. It usually shows up right on time.
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