Key Highlights:
- Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina beat Austria 2-0 in the 2026 World Cup.
- Messi became the highest World Cup goal scorer with 18 goals, surpassing Miroslav Klose.
- Argentina remains top of Group J and moves closer to qualification.
- The win further strengthened Messi’s historic World Cup legacy.
The 39-year-old forward not only guided Argentina to another crucial win but also became the outright highest goal scorer in FIFA World Cup history, moving past Germany legend Miroslav Klose’s long-standing record.
Messi now stands at 18 World Cup goals, having previously drawn level with Klose after a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening 3-0 win over Algeria.
His latest brace confirmed his place at the top of the all-time scoring chart in the competition.
Argentina started strongly and thought they had taken the lead in the 38th minute when Messi converted from the penalty spot.
However, the celebration was cut short after a VAR review ruled the goal out. The setback lasted only moments.
In the 40th minute, Argentina broke Austria’s defensive line when Facundo Medina delivered a precise pass into the box, and Messi calmly slotted home to give the South Americans a deserved 1-0 lead.
Austria struggled to create clear chances against Argentina’s organised defensive setup, with the world champions controlling possession for long spells.
The match remained competitive into the second half, with Austria pushing for an equaliser, but Argentina maintained their composure and game control.
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Discipline issues also affected both sides, with bookings for Stefan Posch and Konrad Laimer of Austria, while Argentina’s Facundo Medina and Leandro Paredes were also cautioned.
As Austria committed more men forward in search of a late goal, Argentina capitalised in stoppage time.
Messi struck again in the 93rd minute with a composed finish to seal the 2-0 victory and complete his record-breaking performance.
The win keeps Argentina firmly on top of Group J and moves them closer to qualification for the knockout stages of the tournament. Austria, meanwhile, now face a difficult path if they are to remain in contention for progression.
Messi’s latest achievement further cements his legacy on the global stage, adding another milestone to an already decorated international career as Argentina continue their title defence.
