Lionel Messi has broken the all-time scoring record in men's FIFA World Cup history, achieving the feat during Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 38-year-old captain, who now holds the record for most goals in the tournament's history, described the moment as "truly spectacular" but expressed frustration at missing an early penalty in the match. Despite the missed opportunity, Messi emphasized the importance of the team's victory and their qualification, stating that collective progress mattered more than individual milestones. He said he does not focus on his age but on how he feels physically, adding that he remains committed to giving his maximum for the team. Messi credited his teammates for their performance, insisting the record belonged to the entire squad. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, who led Argentina to World Cup triumph in 2022, reaffirmed the team's goal of defending their title, with every player fully dedicated to the cause. His performance continues to underscore his enduring presence on football's biggest stage.
Lionel Messi called his record-breaking World Cup goal "truly spectacular" while admitting anger over a missed penalty, exposing the tension between personal standards and historic success. He claims not to think about age but focuses on physical condition, yet at 38, his ability to deliver at this level contradicts conventional expectations of athletic decline. The record is his, but he insists it belongs to the team, revealing a rare athlete who elevates collective goals above individual legacy. Argentina's mission to defend their title now rests on a man who continues to redefine what's possible in his third decade at the top.
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