ARLINGTON, Texas — Lionel Messi has set a new World Cup scoring record, netting his 17th goal in Argentina’s match against Austria. This achievement came shortly after a missed penalty kick left him frustrated. The record-setting goal was scored in the 38th minute, providing Argentina a 1-0 lead.
This momentous occasion took place two days before Messi’s 39th birthday and amidst personal concerns involving his father who is dealing with an undisclosed illness. Messi’s father, Jorge, has been instrumental in managing his business affairs and career.
Messi has made history by scoring in six consecutive World Cup matches, joining the ranks of legendary players like France’s Just Fontaine and Brazil’s Jairzinho.
The record puts him ahead of Germany’s Miroslav Klose, with Messi previously equaling Klose in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria. In that match, Messi’s hat trick marked his 200th international appearance.
During the game against Austria, Messi exploited a mistake by goalkeeper Alexander Schlager, sending a perfectly placed shot into the net. The celebration was electric in the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys stadium where Argentina’s supporters—numbering 70,649—witnessed the historic goal.
Earlier, a gasp swept through the crowd when Messi missed a penalty kick. His attempt sailed wide of the right post. This miss adds to his record, making him 4 out of 7 on penalty kicks during World Cup regulation play.
“I expect my record to fall in this tournament,” Klose said before the tournament began. “More games mean more opportunities to score, and Messi is a genius.”
Messi’s sixth World Cup participation has made him the player with the most matches played in the tournament, with Monday marking his 28th appearance.
The penalty was awarded after Lautaro Martinez was tackled in the box. Despite Xaver Schlager’s foot reaching the ball, Stefan Posch’s challenge warranted the penalty without touching the ball.
In related matters, officials delayed the game to review the tackle on Martinez who remained on the field.
Messi was visibly emotional after his earlier match against Algeria, indicating personal challenges unrelated to soccer. His father, Jorge Messi, has been receiving medical treatment.
Elsewhere, AP Sports Writer James Ellingworth contributed to the reporting from Duesseldorf, Germany.
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