Argentina produced a strong performance to defeat Austria in their Group J encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with Lionel Messi delivering a historic night on the global stage.
The match began with early tension as Argentina were awarded a penalty, but Messi was denied, keeping the game level in the opening stages.
However, the 38-year-old forward responded in trademark fashion, opening the scoring with his first goal of the night to give Argentina the lead and shift momentum firmly in their favour.
Austria tried to respond with periods of pressure, but Argentina’s control in midfield and sharp transitions kept them in charge of the contest.
Messi struck again, in the 85th minute, scoring his second goal to seal the result and put the game beyond Austria’s reach.
The brace took Messi to 18 World Cup goals in total, officially making him the all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history, surpassing Germany legend Miroslav Klose.
He also moves to the top of the 2026 World Cup scoring chart with 5 goals so far, leading the race for the tournament’s Golden Boot award.
Argentina managed the closing stages comfortably, slowing the tempo and protecting their advantage as Austria struggled to find a breakthrough.
The victory strengthens Argentina’s position in Group J as they move closer to qualification for the knockout rounds, while Messi continues to redefine World Cup history with yet another record-breaking performance.
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