Lionel Messi made history in Dallas, scoring twice against Austria to shatter the World Cup goalscoring record and send Argentina into the knockouts.
Lionel Messi rewrote the history books once again in Dallas, delivering a masterclass to guide Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria and secure their spot in the Round of 32. The reigning champions extended their sensational winning streak to nine matches while preserving an eight-game unbeaten run on the world stage.
The soon-to-be 39-year-old icon broke the deadlock by clinically converting Facundo Medina’s low delivery. The strike drew him level with Brazilian legend Marta, but Messi was not done yet. Deep into stoppage time, the magician struck again to claim the ultimate tournament goalscoring record for himself.
Ralf Rangnick’s resilient Austria side made life difficult for the holders, but Argentina’s defensive solidity proved too much to breach. Despite the defeat, the Europeans remain firmly in contention for the knockout phase.
With five goals already in this tournament, a characteristically modest Messi expressed his exhaustion but praised the team’s tireless work ethic, which gives the South American giants much-needed tranquility moving forward.