Lionel Messi has once again etched his name into the football record books, becoming the highest-scoring player in World Cup history. The 39-year-old Inter Miami star achieved the monumental feat during Argentina’s 1-0 victory over Austria, though his historic night was tinged with both a contentious goal decision and an unwanted personal penalty record.

A new World Cup scoring king

Messi’s record-breaking performance saw him surpass German legend Miroslav Klose, who previously held the top spot. The Argentine maestro now boasts an impressive 18 strikes in the tournament, moving ahead of other iconic names like Ronaldo Nazario and Gerd Muller.

His first goal against Austria came in the 38th minute, a precise left-footed effort that marked his entry into the record books. A late second goal further solidified his lead, providing breathing room over his nearest competitors.

Schmeichel’s VAR frustration

However, the legitimacy of Messi’s opening goal was immediately questioned by former Manchester United and Denmark goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel. Working on FOX Sport’s coverage of the game, Schmeichel vehemently argued that the goal should have been disallowed due to a foul in the build-up.

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“This is a free-kick, Mac Allister has kicked the player down. That should have been a free-kick. VAR should have taken that back. That is a clear and obvious mistake by the referee,” Schmeichel stated, referring to an incident where he believed Alexis Mac Allister fouled Austria’s Xaver Schlager. He added, “And for that I feel a little bit frustrated,” as reported by GiveMeSport.

Penalty struggles persist

Adding to the night’s mixed emotions, Messi also set an unenviable record from the penalty spot. Given an opportunity to extend Argentina’s lead after Lautaro Martinez was fouled, the forward fired his 12-yard effort wide. This marked the 33rd missed spot-kick of his illustrious career. More significantly, it made him the player with the most missed penalties in World Cup history, having now failed to convert three times on football’s biggest stage.

Despite the controversies and the penalty miss, Messi’s achievement stands as a testament to his enduring brilliance and longevity at the pinnacle of the sport, further cementing his legacy in World Cup lore.

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