Lionel Messi Becomes All-Time World Cup Top Scorer
In a performance that silenced any remaining doubters, Lionel Messi etched his name deeper into football folklore by becoming the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup history during Argentina's latest group-stage fixture. The little magician has now scored all five of Argentina's goals in the tournament so far, underlining his talismanic presence as the reigning champions march toward the knockout stages.
Speaking on the Guardian Football Weekly podcast, Max Rushden and his panel—including Barry Glendenning and Mark Langdon—heaped praise on the 38-year-old.
“He’s quite good, isn’t he?” Rushden joked, before adding that Messi’s ability to carry his nation at this level remains unmatched.
The record-breaking goal came in typically sublime fashion, sparking wild celebrations and leaving fans wondering just how many more milestones Messi can conquer before his storied career ends.
Storm Delays France’s Rout of Iraq in Philadelphia
While Messi dominated headlines, Mother Nature stole the show in Philadelphia, where a violent thunderstorm halted play during France's clash with Iraq. The match, which eventually ended 3-0 to Les Bleus, was suspended for over an hour as torrential rain and lightning made conditions unplayable.
“It felt like the game took three days to complete,” Rushden remarked on the podcast, capturing the surreal atmosphere.
Kylian Mbappé was again on the scoresheet, keeping his own chase of Messi’s new record alive. The French captain now sits just behind the Argentine on the all-time list, adding extra spice to a potential later-stage meeting between the two superstars.
Elsewhere: Norway Edge Senegal, Algeria Eliminate Jordan
The day’s action also featured a thrilling 3-2 victory for Norway over Senegal, a result that sets up a tense group finale against France with top spot potentially shaping the knockout bracket. Meanwhile, Algeria fought back from a goal down to beat debutants Jordan 2-1, eliminating the Asian side and keeping their own last-16 hopes alive. Amine Gouiri’s winner from a corner sealed a dramatic turnaround in California.
With Argentina already confirmed as Group J winners, attention now turns to the round of 32, where they will face the Group H runners-up—currently Uruguay—on July 3.
Key Takeaways
- Lionel Messi stands alone as the all-time top World Cup goalscorer, with all five of Argentina’s 2026 goals so far.
- A severe thunderstorm caused an extended delay in Philadelphia, but France eventually cruised past Iraq 3-0.
- Kylian Mbappé is within touching distance of Messi’s record, promising a thrilling subplot for the remainder of the World Cup.
- Algeria’s comeback win eliminated Jordan, while Norway’s victory over Senegal keeps the group finely poised.
Quick Facts
New Record Holder: Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Previous Record: Miroslav Klose (16 goals)
France vs Iraq Score: 3-0
Delay Location: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
Algeria vs Jordan: 2-1 (Algeria win)
Norway vs Senegal: 3-2