World Cup 2026: Messi makes history as Argentina dominate Austria

Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 in Texas on Monday to mathematically secure their passage to the last 16. Lionel Messi scored twice, including a record-breaking 17th World Cup goal, to become the all-time leading goal-scorer in tournament history.

Argentina controlled the match from start to finish, with Messi providing the decisive moments despite missing a penalty early in the first half. After squandering a spot-kick in the eighth minute, the Argentine captain finally found the breakthrough in the 38th minute with a powerful finish from close range after receiving a cutback from Almada. Austria tested Argentina's defence sporadically but rarely troubled goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Messi nearly added a second before half-time, but Argentina went into the interval with their one-goal advantage intact.

The second half saw Austria press harder, bringing on fresh attacking options in search of an equalizer, but Argentina's defensive organization remained resolute. In stoppage time, Messi sealed the victory with a clinical finish on a counter-attack, firing past goalkeeper Schlager to record his 17th World Cup goal.

(FRANCE 24 with AFP)