Messi Fires Argentina Into World Cup Knockout Stage With Record-Breaking Brace

Lionel Messi helped Argentina secure a 2-0 win over Austria in Dallas to book their place in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The reigning champions made a lively start and were handed a penalty after a VAR review showed Stefan Posch had brought down Lisandro Martínez inside the box. Lionel Messi stepped up but surprisingly dragged his effort wide.

Austria grew into the game after the miss, with Marcel Sabitzer, David Alaba and Konrad Laimer driving their side forward and unsettling Argentina.

Despite Austria enjoying a spell of control, Argentina scored first through the man who so often delivers on the biggest stage. Messi arrived at the far post to steer Facundo Medina’s low cross into the net, scoring his 17th World Cup goal and moving past Miroslav Klose’s tournament goalscoring record.

Austria resumed brightly after the break and forced Emiliano Martínez into action. The Argentina goalkeeper produced two important saves, including a sharp stop from Sabitzer’s dangerous free-kick, as Ralf Rangnick’s side searched for a route back into the match.

Argentina nearly doubled their advantage in the 72nd minute when Nico González powered a free header narrowly wide from Messi’s corner. As Austria pushed forward in pursuit of an equaliser, gaps began to appear at the other end.

González was denied by Kevin Danso late on, while substitute Marko Arnautovic found little joy against a disciplined Argentina defence. The decisive second goal eventually arrived in stoppage time when Messi reacted quickest during a crowded goalmouth scramble, smashing the ball home to seal the win.

The result extended Argentina’s unbeaten World Cup run to eight matches and marked a ninth consecutive victory in all competitions. Austria, meanwhile, suffered only a second defeat in their last 13 matches but remain firmly in contention to reach the knockout rounds.