The forward - competing at his record-equalling sixth World Cup - had matched the 16-goal record set by the Germany international with his hat-trick in the opening game against Algeria.
He then followed this up with a goal against Austria - breaking the record and taking him a goal clear at the top of the standings.
It was a wonderful left-footed finished from the Argentina captain to put his team ahead in Arlington in the 39th minute. It is his fourth goal at the 2026 World Cup.
It came after a terrible start for the Inter Miami forward, who missed a penalty inside 10 minutes, skewing his attempt wide of the right-hand post. He missed a few other chances, before finally finding the net.
Argentina can secure their place in the round of 32 if they beat Austria, with Messi having at least one more guaranteed game to extend his lead. They face Jordan next on Sunday June 28 in the final Group J game.
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And Klose - who scored his last World Cup goal in 2014 against Brazil in that famous 7-1 semi-final win - could find himself bumped further down the table by another player at the 2026 World Cup. Kylian Mbappe has 14 World Cup goals, two behind Klose's former record.
More to follow...
