Lionel Messi made history on Monday, becoming the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history as he captained Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria, securing the defending champions a place in the last 32.
Widely hailed as the greatest of all time, Messi struck late in the first half in Texas, finishing with his trademark left foot after a slick team move. The goal, his 17th in World Cup play, added to his hat-trick from Argentina’s opening match and set a new tournament record.
The 38-year-old sealed the win deep into second-half stoppage time, weaving past four defenders before slotting home Argentina’s second. Earlier, Messi had a rare setback, missing a penalty in front of a raucous, pro-Argentina crowd of 70,649 at the air-conditioned Dallas Cowboys stadium.
“I’m very happy with the win. It was important, tough, really tough, and it gives us confidence for what’s ahead,” Messi said, competing in his sixth World Cup. “The game was intense, evenly matched, and we’re pleased to have six points.”
Messi’s name echoed around the stadium after another extraordinary performance. “There’s not much more to say about Leo. For over 20 years, he’s been the best in the world—he’s the best in history,” said teammate Julian Alvarez.
Both teams knew that a victory would guarantee qualification for the knockout rounds. Lautaro Martinez won an early penalty after being sandwiched by two Austrian defenders, but Messi’s uncharacteristically tame effort went wide. Despite his legendary status, Messi has had well-documented struggles from the penalty spot, missing again after previous failed attempts in the 2022 and 2018 tournaments.
Austria, coached by Ralf Rangnick, was content to sit back and failed to register a shot on target in the first half, despite occasional threats. Eventually, Messi broke the deadlock in the 38th minute, finishing off a clever move involving Facundo Medina and Thiago Almada, whose dummy let the ball run for Messi to sweep home.
The goal electrified Argentina’s fans, who outnumbered their Austrian counterparts in the stadium. Messi’s emotional response recalled his tearful celebration after scoring against Algeria in Argentina’s opening match, a game marked by personal challenges as his father recovers from illness.
Messi, who had delayed his decision to play in this World Cup until the last minute, continues to inspire his country. Although Argentina couldn’t extend its lead for much of the second half and Austria pressed, goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was rarely tested. In the dying moments, Messi capped the night by eluding four defenders to score his second and seal the win.
“We always knew he was on another level, and today Lionel Messi proved again he’s the best,” said Austria coach Ralf Rangnick.
With Messi leading the way, Argentina marches confidently into the knockout stage.
