Lionel Messi Breaks World Cup Scoring Record As Argentina Reach Knockouts

Argentina confirmed their place in the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 2-0 win against Austria in a Group J encounter at Dallas Stadium.

The result ensured progression for the reigning champions after collecting a second consecutive victory in the competition.

Lionel Messi delivered another memorable performance by netting both goals and establishing a new World Cup scoring benchmark. His opening strike in the 38th minute took his overall tally to 17 goals in the tournament, moving him ahead of Germany legend Miroslav Klose.

The Argentine skipper also reached another milestone by becoming only the third footballer to score in six successive World Cup appearances, joining France’s Just Fontaine and Brazil’s Jairzinho. The goal represented his fourth goal of the ongoing tournament.

Argentina started brightly and received an early opportunity to take the lead from the penalty spot.

Messi was unable to convert, allowing Austria to gain confidence and dictate periods of play through intense pressing and organised defending.

Despite Austria’s growing influence, it failed to capitalise on its momentum.

Argentina eventually regained control when Messi combined effectively with Thiago Almada before finding the net with a clinical finish beyond goalkeeper Alexander Schlager shortly before the break.

The second half remained competitive, with Austria continuing to challenge the South American side.

Nevertheless, Argentina managed the contest efficiently and maintained its advantage as the match entered stoppage time.

Messi then put the result beyond doubt in the fifth minute of added time, capitalising on an opportunity to score his second goal of the night and his 18th overall in World Cup history.

The victory leaves Argentina in a commanding position in Group J and strengthens their hopes of retaining the world title, while Messi’s remarkable display added another chapter to his extraordinary international career.