Ronaldo backs Messi in World Cup scoring record race

Lionel Messi tied Miroslav Klose’s World Cup scoring record after a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina’s 3-0 group win. The goals took Messi to 16 World Cup strikes, matching Klose’s all-time total. Ronaldo Nazário, the former Brazil striker who previously held the South American World Cup scoring record, publicly praised Messi. Nazário said Messi “definitely” deserves recognition as the all-time leading World Cup scorer. Key milestones highlighted in the article: Messi became the oldest player to score a World Cup hat-trick at age 38. He also became the first player to appear in six FIFA World Cups, with his tournament journey starting in 2006 in Germany. For context, Nazário noted his own career trajectory. He scored 15 World Cup goals across four tournaments (1994–2006) but injuries curtailed his run—contrasting with Messi’s longevity. What happens next: with Argentina still in the group stage, Messi has further matches to break the World Cup scoring record outright. The article frames the moment as part of the ongoing “GOAT” debate and emphasizes that Nazário’s endorsement goes beyond statistics. No direct crypto angle is presented, but sports-driven headlines can occasionally affect trader sentiment. The World Cup scoring record update is more likely to be a short-lived distraction than a market-moving catalyst.