Historic Messi Leads Argentina Past Austria 2-0 Now

Argentina secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after beating Austria 2-0 in Dallas. Lionel Messi scored both goals and broke another major record.

The Argentine captain missed an early penalty. However, he quickly recovered. He scored twice and became the top scorer in World Cup history.

As a result, Argentina qualified for the knockout stage with one game left. They also extended their unbeaten World Cup run to eight matches.

Watch the match highlights at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M4Ccsmk3gcE

Argentina Start Fast

Argentina knew that a win would secure qualification. Therefore, they attacked from the opening whistle.

The first major moment came in the eighth minute. After that, Lautaro Martinez went down inside the penalty area. As a result, the referee reviewed the incident on VAR and awarded a penalty.

Messi stepped up to take the spot kick. However, his effort went wide of the post.

Despite that setback, Argentina remained calm. Instead, they continued to control possession and push forward.

Meanwhile, Austria showed great determination. They pressed aggressively and challenged Argentina all over the pitch.

Photo: AFA

Austria Put Up a Strong Fight

Austria did not sit back. Instead, they looked for chances to attack.

Marcel Sabitzer caused problems with his movement. At the same time, David Alaba led the defense well.

In the 17th minute, Sabitzer broke into the box. However, his cross did not reach a teammate.

A few minutes later, Austria created another chance. Fortunately for Argentina, their defense cleared the danger.

For much of the first half, both teams shared possession. Austria showed they could compete with the defending champions.

Photo: CONMEBOL

Messi Breaks the Record

Argentina finally took the lead in the 38th minute.

The move started in midfield. Then, Facundo Medina sent a low cross into the penalty area. Messi arrived at the right time and finished with his left foot.

The goal made history.

Photo: AFA

It was Messi’s 17th World Cup goal. As a result, he moved past Miroslav Klose and became the tournament’s all-time top scorer.

He also set another record. He became the first player to score in six straight World Cup matches.

The goal came on a special date. It happened exactly 40 years after Diego Maradona’s famous goals against England at the 1986 World Cup.

Argentina went into halftime with a 1-0 lead.

Photo: AFA

Martinez Keeps Argentina Ahead

Austria attacked more after the break.

In the 55th minute, Sabitzer tested Emiliano Martinez with a free kick. However, the goalkeeper made an important save.

Soon after, Michael Gregoritsch headed over the crossbar from a good position.

Although Austria pushed forward, Argentina still created chances.

In the 65th minute, Messi almost scored again. After receiving a pass from Enzo Fernandez, he shot just wide.

Later, Nico Gonzalez and Enzo Fernandez also threatened the Austrian goal.

At the other end, Emiliano Martinez remained calm. He made key saves and protected Argentina’s lead.

Messi Seals the Win

Austria committed more players forward late in the game. As a result, Argentina found more space to attack.

In stoppage time, Messi combined with Julian Alvarez. Alvarez’s shot was saved, but Argentina won the ball back quickly.

Moments later, Messi got another chance. This time, he scored.

The goal made it 2-0 and secured the victory.

It was also Messi’s 18th World Cup goal. Therefore, he extended his record as the tournament’s greatest scorer.

Soon after, the referee blew the final whistle.

Messi is history. Photo: AFA

Argentina Move On

This win meant more than three points.

First, Argentina qualified for the Round of 16. Second, they extended their unbeaten World Cup streak.

Most importantly, Messi added another historic achievement to his career.

At 39 years old, he continues to perform at the highest level. He continues to break records. And he continues to inspire football fans around the world.

Argentina now enter the knockout stage with confidence. Meanwhile, Messi’s incredible World Cup journey goes on.