India, June 22 -- Before kick-off against Austria in Argentina's Group J clash at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Lionel Messi stood level with Miroslav Klose on 16 goals at the FIFA World Cup. By the end of the evening, the Argentine captain had the record all to himself. The Argentina captain found the back of the net twice to move past the German legend and become the highest goalscorer in men's World Cup history, adding yet another milestone to a career already packed with them.

The historic goal did not come without drama. Messi had endured a frustrating opening period against Austria, seeing one effort saved before missing from the penalty spot. For a brief moment, it looked as though the record would have to wait. But in the 39th...