Lionel Messi delivered another masterclass as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J clash, securing qualification for the Round of 32 with a game to spare.
The defending champions entered the match looking to build on their strong start to the tournament, but Austria proved difficult opponents. Despite dominating possession and creating several chances, Argentina struggled to find a breakthrough in the opening stages. Messi also missed a penalty, giving Austria hope of pulling off an upset.
Messi makes history again
Argentina finally took the lead in the 38th minute through Messi. The captain finished a flowing team move to put his side ahead and, in the process, became the highest goalscorer in men’s FIFA World Cup history.
The goal was another milestone in an already remarkable international career. Messi remained at the heart of Argentina’s attacking play throughout the contest, creating opportunities and constantly testing the Austrian defence.
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هد٠ميسي م٠الملØب 🤯
— خالد ب٠Ùصلا | KF (@wlv_s1) June 22, 2026
ميسي يصÙØ ÙˆÙ„Ù٠لم تÙتمل ليقوم بالمهمه بÙÙسه ويسØÙ„ الثاÙÙŠ ÙÙŠ مرمى الÙمسا 🤩ðŸ‡ðŸ‡·#Argentina#Messi pic.twitter.com/1N0VIGyCL2
Austria, however, refused to back down. They stayed organised at the back and looked to threaten on the counterattack whenever possible. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was rarely troubled, but Austria’s defensive discipline ensured the game remained competitive.
Argentina finish strongly
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Argentina controlling possession while Austria searched for an equaliser. As the clock ticked down, Lionel Scaloni’s side continued to push forward in search of a second goal that would put the result beyond doubt.
That decisive moment arrived deep into stoppage time. Messi reacted quickest inside the penalty area and calmly found the net to complete his brace and seal Argentina’s victory.
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The win takes Argentina into the knockout stage and strengthens their position at the top of Group J. With two victories from two matches, the South American giants have taken a major step toward defending their World Cup crown.
For Austria, the defeat leaves qualification hopes hanging in the balance ahead of their final group-stage fixture. They showed resilience for long periods but were ultimately undone by Messi’s brilliance.
With five goals in two World Cup matches, Messi continues to lead Argentina’s charge and add new records to his legendary career.
