Messi becomes all-time World Cup top scorer as Mbappé nips at his heels

Argentina captain Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, has set a new record for the most goals scored in Fifa World Cup matches.

Messi, who turns 39 tomorrow, is competing in his sixth World Cup. He now has 18 World Cup goals to his name after scoring twice against Austria, surpassing German striker Miroslav Klose’s previous record of 16.

Since making his World Cup debut in 2006, Messi has also scored a total of 121 goals in 201 appearances for Argentina across all competitions.

“Beyond anything, I’m so happy for the win,” Messi said, according to AFP.

“It was huge, tough and difficult. It will allow us to be more relaxed for what’s ahead. All matches in this World Cup are very even, very intense. I am enjoying this moment and looking forward to sharing it with my teammates,” he added.

France star Kylian Mbappé is close behind with 16 World Cup goals after scoring twice in his side’s 3-0 win over Iraq.

Meanwhile, Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo - widely regarded as Messi’s fiercest rival - has yet to hit top form in the tournament, with limited impact so far.

Amid criticism, head coach Roberto Martínez praised Ronaldo as “a good example for all of us,” but declined to confirm whether the veteran skipper will start the World Cup clash against Uzbekistan at 1am (Malaysian time) tomorrow.

Portugal opened their campaign with a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo last week.

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