—
title: “Messi Breaks World Cup All-Time Scoring Record as 2026 Tournament Heats Up”
date: 2026-06-24
category: “Guides & How-Tos”
—
**Disclosure:** This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases.
# Messi Breaks World Cup All-Time Scoring Record as 2026 Tournament Heats Up
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is well underway across the United States, Canada, and Mexico — and what a tournament it’s been so far. From record-breaking milestones to dramatic group-stage exits, here’s everything you need to know about the biggest stories on the pitch right now.
—
## 🐐 Messi Makes History: 18 World Cup Goals and Counting
Lionel Messi has done it again. At 38 years old, the Inter Miami star has become the **all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup history** with 18 goals — surpassing the previous record held by Miroslav Klose (16) and Germany’s Gerd Müller (14).
Messi’s milestone came in Argentina’s second group match against Austria, where he scored a trademark left-footed curler followed by a tight-angle strike to seal a 2-0 victory and send the defending champions into the Round of 32.
What makes this even more remarkable?
– Messi has now scored in **6 consecutive World Cup matches** — tying a record held only by Just Fontaine (1958) and Jairzinho (1970).
– He’s created more chances than any player in tournament history.
– He’s one assist away from surpassing Diego Maradona’s all-time record.
– He’s also the front-runner for the **Golden Boot** — the one individual World Cup prize he’s never won.
With Argentina cruising through Group B and a match against Jordan still to come, don’t be surprised if that 18-goal tally climbs even higher.
—
## 🔥 Group Stage Drama: Upsets, Heartbreak, and History
The group stage is reaching its climax, and several big storylines have emerged:
### 🇧🇷 Brazil Dominates, Scotland on the Brink
Brazil delivered a clinical 3-0 victory over Scotland in Miami, leaving the Tartan Army’s knockout hopes hanging by a thread. Steve Clarke’s side can still sneak through as one of the best third-place finishers, but they’ll need results elsewhere to go their way.
### 🇲🇽 Mexico Perfect, Czech Republic Go Home
Mexico made it three wins from three at the iconic Azteca Stadium, sending the Czech Republic packing with a 100% group-stage record. El Tri look dangerous as co-hosts.
### 🇨🇭 Switzerland & Canada Both Advance
Switzerland beat Canada, but both teams secured their place in the last 32 — a historic first for Canada, who will play knockout football for the first time ever.
### 🇧🇦 Bosnia Knocks Out Qatar
Bosnia’s win over Qatar keeps their last-32 hopes alive while eliminating the 2022 hosts entirely.
### 🇨🇴 Colombia Through, DR Congo Out
Colombia sealed their spot in the knockout rounds with a win over DR Congo.
—
## 💰 Would You Watch 104 Matches for $50,000?
Fox Sports has hired two fans — Kevin Akoto and Austin Franklin — as official “Chief World Cup Watchers.” Their job? Watch **all 104 matches** from a custom glass cubicle in New York’s Times Square for a cool **$50,000 each**.
They get recliners, big-screen TVs, cuisine from competing nations, and the world watching them watch football. The catch? 104 matches is a *marathon*. “I’ve gotten worn down,” Kevin admits.
From witnessing Messi’s record-breaking goal while eating Argentinian barbecue to interacting with thousands of Brazilian fans flooding Times Square, it’s a dream gig — if you can handle the stamina.
—
## ❓ FAQ
### Where is the 2026 World Cup being held?
The tournament is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico across 16 cities. The final will be played on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
### How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup?
For the first time, the tournament features **48 teams** expanded from the previous 32. The top two from each group plus the best third-place finishers advance to a 32-team knockout round.
### Who is leading the Golden Boot race?
Lionel Messi currently leads with 5 goals after two group matches, with Norway’s Erling Haaland and France’s Kylian Mbappé close behind.
### Where can I watch World Cup matches?
Matches are broadcast on Fox Sports in the US, with streaming options available on Fubo, YouTube TV, and Fox Sports app.
—
## 📅 Key Upcoming Matches
| Match | Date | Time (ET) | Venue |
|—|—|—|—|
| Argentina vs Jordan | June 26 | 8:00 PM | Los Angeles |
| USA vs [TBD] | June 27 | 9:00 PM | Seattle |
| Brazil vs [TBD] | June 28 | 4:00 PM | Houston |
| Round of 32 begins | June 29 | — | Various |
—
## 🏆 Final Verdict
The 2026 World Cup has delivered everything fans could ask for — history, drama, heartbreak, and pure joy. Messi rewriting the record books in his late 30s is a testament to his dedication and love for the game. Whether you’re rooting for Argentina, the US, or an underdog, this tournament is shaping up to be one of the most memorable ever.
**Want to catch every match?** Check out the best deals on TVs, streaming devices, and sports gear on Amazon 👇
🏆 Shop World Cup 2026 Gear on Amazon →
*This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, PC Master Deals earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change.*
### Related Posts
– [Best Gaming TVs for Sports Under $1,000](https://blog.pcmasterdeals.com)
– [Best Streaming Devices for Cord-Cutters in 2026](https://blog.pcmasterdeals.com)