CULTURE — June 23, 2026
Messi Sets World Cup Goal-Scoring Record; Argentina Advances to Knockout Stage
The 39-year-old Argentine missed an early penalty but scored twice to reach 18 World Cup goals, two more than the previous record. He has scored in six consecutive tournaments and has five goals so far, making him a favorite for the Golden Boot.
The Ehtebar Desk — originates with Ariana News — corroborated by Khaama Press — 2 min read

Lionel Messi scored both goals in Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria. This performance broke Miroslav Klose's World Cup record with 18 career goals. It also helped the defending champions advance to the knockout stage.
The 39-year-old star missed an early penalty. He has now scored in six straight World Cup games. Messi is among the top contenders for the Golden Boot.
Messi has won the Ballon d'Or eight times. With five goals this World Cup he is a frontrunner for the Golden Boot.
Afghan football fans can watch the World Cup live on Ariana Radio and Television network.
The match result confirms Argentina's progression from the group stage. Messi's goals were the only ones in the game against Austria.
Messi's record now stands at 18 goals in World Cup history. This is two more than the previous mark.
His streak of scoring in six straight games continues with this match.
The eight Ballon d'Or wins add to his legacy. The five goals put him in contention for another individual honor.
Fans in Afghanistan have access to live coverage through the specified network.
Read the original reporting at Ariana News →
Reliability assessment
Two independent outlets corroborate the core event with consistent details on the match result, Messi's goals, and record.
The source language reads straight.
Across the newsrooms
Where reports agree
- Messi scored twice in a 2-0 Argentina win over Austria to reach 18 World Cup goals and break Klose's record
- Argentina advanced to the knockout stage
- Messi missed an early penalty but performed strongly overall
- Messi has 8 Ballon d'Or awards, goals in 6 straight World Cups, and 5 goals this tournament
- Afghan viewers can watch on Ariana Radio and Television
Filed by 2 outlets
Ariana News
Originating
Reported straight
Reported straight
Khaama Press
Framed
Framed
Filed under
Culture — Lionel Messi, FIFA World Cup, Argentina, Austria, Football
Spotted an error or have more on this story? Tip the desk on Telegram → or WhatsApp →.
Reader supported
Keep Ehtebar running
Every published story uses paid tools to translate reporting, compare sources, extract claims, and produce a clearer read on Afghanistan. Reader support helps keep that work independent.
€5
helps cover daily verification runs
€15
supports a week of source comparison
€50
keeps independent analysis moving
More in Culture

Deputy Minister of Culture and Art Says Efforts to Protect Historical Sites Will Continue
— Reliable

Traditional Gul-e-Zard Poetry Gathering Held in Kapisa
— Reliable

Elon Musk Celebrates 55th Birthday with Space-Themed Family Gathering
— Reliable

Afghanistan Refugee Women's Cricket Team Plays Matches in England
— Reliable