Lionel Messi became the all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history with a brace that powered defending champions Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria on Monday, securing top spot in Group J.
The 38-year-old superstar, who turns 39 in two days, took his tournament tally to 18 goals across six World Cups after netting twice at Dallas Stadium. He had drawn level with Germany’s Miroslav Klose on 16 goals with a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening 3-0 win over Algeria.
Messi missed an early penalty but made amends in the 39th minute, latching onto a return pass from Facundo Medina before calmly sweeping the ball home with his left foot for his 17th World Cup strike. His record-breaking 18th followed in stoppage time as he pounced on a loose ball after Julian Alvarez’s initial effort was thwarted.
Argentina dominated proceedings despite Austria showing flashes of promise in the second half. The Europeans created chances but lacked the finishing quality to test the South American side, who remain on course to retain their title.
The win sends Argentina into the knockout stage with a game to spare. They face Jordan next, while Austria must regroup against Algeria in their final group fixture.
Messi, starting alongside Lautaro Martinez up front, was the architect of much of Argentina’s attacking play. His vision created the penalty opportunity early on after a slick move involving Nahuel Molina and Lautaro, though his spot-kick sailed wide — his third miss from 12 yards at a World Cup.
The result keeps Argentina unbeaten in the group and underlines their status as strong favourites despite Messi’s advancing years.
Line-ups
Argentina: Emiliano Martinez; Nahuel Molina, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Facundo Medina; Rodrigo De Paul, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Thiago Almada; Lionel Messi, Lautaro Martinez.
Austria: Alexander Schlager; Stefan Posch, Kevin Danso, David Alaba, Konrad Laimer; Nicolas Seiwald, Xaver Schlager; Romano Schmid, Paul Wanner, Marcel Sabitzer; Michael Gregoritsch.
