Argentina captain Lionel Messi made more World Cup history on Monday night, scoring twice to lead his side to a comfortable 2-0 victory over Austria and become the highest goalscorer in the tournament’s history.
The win in Dallas also secured Argentina’s place in the knockout stage, putting the defending champions firmly in control of Group J after another impressive display.
Messi had the chance to open the scoring early in the game after a VAR review awarded Argentina a penalty for a foul on Lautaro Martinez. However, the 38 year old forward failed to convert from the spot.
The missed penalty did little to slow him down. Before the end of the first half, Messi found the breakthrough with a trademark finish after meeting a low cross from Facundo Medina, giving Argentina a deserved lead.
That goal took his World Cup tally to 17, moving him ahead of Miroslav Klose to become the competition’s all time leading scorer. The Argentine legend was not done yet, adding another goal deep into stoppage time to seal the victory.
His latest brace means Messi has now scored five goals in just two Group J matches, following his hat trick against Algeria in Argentina’s opening fixture.
Austria, who began their campaign with a win over Jordan, showed plenty of determination throughout the contest but struggled to create clear scoring opportunities in the final third. Despite the defeat, they remain in contention for a place in the next round.
Argentina now sit at the top of Group J and appear well positioned to finish as group winners as they continue their bid to successfully defend the World Cup title.
