2026 FIFA World Cup: Messi equals 56-year record to help Argentina beat Austria

Argentina have qualified for the next round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup thanks to an inspired performance and multi-record-breaking goals from their magisterial captain, Lionel Messi, in the victory against Austria.

After missing a penalty in the 10th minute of the contest, the former Barcelona forward scored a sensational brace—a record-setter and a spare—to spur Albiceleste on to a 2-0 victory.

He struck first in the 38th minute, his 17th goal in FIFA World Cup history, which officially saw him surpass Miroslav Klose on the competition's top scorer history. The goal also put him alongside Just Fontaine (1958) and Jairzinho (1970) as the only players to score in six consecutive World Cup appearances.

His second was the cherry on top, scoring in the final minute of the five allotted for second-half injury time to erase all doubts.

After knocking in the door repeatedly, the breakthrough inevitably arrived in the 38th minute. Shaking off the penalty upset, Messi received the ball inside the area and coolly placed a low finish beyond the dive of Austrian goalkeeper Schlager. 

Austria, looking to build on their 3-1 opening victory against Jordan, fought valiantly under manager Ralf Rangnick. 

Anchored by David Alaba and Konrad Laimer, the European side created a few tense moments but struggled to penetrate an organised Argentine defence.

As Austria pushed bodies forward in search of a late equaliser, Messi punished them once again. Deep into stoppage time, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner rampaged through a crowded penalty area, ramming a final finish past Schlager to secure his brace, extend his record to 18 World Cup goals, and seal the 2-0 victory for Lionel Scaloni’s side. 

With back-to-back clean-sheet victories, Argentina sit comfortably at the top of Group J with a perfect six points. They have mathematically guaranteed their progression to the knockout phase and can clinch the top spot depending on the result between Jordan and Algeria.

Austria remain on three points. Their destiny is still in their own hands, but they will now face a crucial final group stage match against Algeria to guarantee their progression to the last 32.