⚽ FIFA World Cup 2026 – Group J
Lionel Messi delivered another historic performance as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 to secure their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32. The Argentine captain scored both goals and became the outright leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, surpassing legendary German striker Miroslav Klose.
The victory not only strengthened Argentina‘s title defence but also added another remarkable chapter to Messi’s already extraordinary international career.
Match Summary
| Team | Score |
|---|---|
| Argentina | 2 |
| Austria | 0 |
Goal Scorers
| Minute | Scorer |
|---|---|
| 38′ | Lionel Messi |
| 90+ | Lionel Messi |
Fast Start and Early Drama
The match began at a high tempo, with both sides showing attacking intent from the opening whistle.
Argentina had a golden opportunity to take an early lead in the 7th minute when Lautaro Martínez was fouled inside the penalty area. Messi stepped up to take the penalty, but Austria survived the scare as the Argentine captain failed to convert from the spot.
Despite the setback, Argentina continued to dominate possession while Austria remained threatening on quick counterattacks.
Messi Breaks the Record
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 38th minute.
A perfectly weighted pass from Facundo Medina found Messi in space, and the captain calmly finished past the Austrian goalkeeper.
The goal was historic.
It was Messi’s 17th FIFA World Cup goal, taking him past Miroslav Klose and making him the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.
All-Time FIFA World Cup Goalscorers
| Player | Goals |
|---|---|
| Lionel Messi | 18 |
| Miroslav Klose | 16 |
| Ronaldo Nazário | 15 |
| Gerd Müller | 14 |
| Just Fontaine | 13 |
Austria Fight Back
Austria responded positively after the interval and continued to push forward in search of an equaliser.
The match remained open and entertaining, with chances at both ends. However, Argentina controlled the decisive moments and looked increasingly dangerous as the clock ticked down.
Messi Seals the Victory
With Austria committing players forward late in the game, Argentina found space on the counterattack.
Deep into stoppage time, Messi produced a composed finish to score his second goal of the night and his 18th World Cup goal overall, sealing a memorable 2-0 victory for La Albiceleste.
The brace ensured Argentina collected all three points while their captain moved even further clear at the top of the World Cup scoring charts.
Key Highlights
✅ Argentina qualify for the Round of 32
✅ Messi scores twice against Austria
✅ Missed an early penalty but responded with a brace
✅ Becomes FIFA World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer
✅ Argentina continue their title defence in impressive fashion
What’s Next for Argentina?
The defending champions now move into the knockout phase with momentum firmly on their side. While Argentina once again showcased their strength as a team, the spotlight belonged to Messi, whose historic performance will be remembered as one of the defining moments of FIFA World Cup 2026.
At 39, the Argentine legend continues to rewrite football history and prove why he remains one of the greatest players the game has ever seen.
📺 Watch FIFA World Cup 2026 LIVE on ZEE5 and Unite8 Sports in English, Hindi, Malayalam, and Bangla.
