- Messi Fires Argentina Into World Cup Knockout Stage With Record-Breaking Brace
- The victory secured Argentina’s place in the World Cup knockout stage.
- Argentina extended their winning streak to nine matches in all competitions.
Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 in Dallas to secure a place in the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The reigning world champions started brightly and were awarded a penalty after a VAR review showed Stefan Posch had fouled Lisandro Martínez inside the area. Messi stepped up to take the spot-kick but dragged his effort wide of the target.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that Austria responded well to the missed penalty and enjoyed a promising spell, with Marcel Sabitzer, David Alaba and Konrad Laimer leading several attacks that tested Argentina’s resolve.
However, Argentina broke the deadlock through Messi, who arrived at the far post to convert Facundo Medina’s low cross. The goal was the Argentine captain’s 17th at the FIFA World Cup, taking him past Miroslav Klose’s tournament goalscoring record.
Austria began the second half with renewed energy and came close to finding an equaliser. Goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez produced crucial saves, including an impressive stop from Sabitzer’s dangerous free-kick, to preserve Argentina’s lead.
Argentina almost doubled their advantage in the 72nd minute when Nico González headed narrowly wide from a Messi corner. As Austria pushed forward in search of a goal, spaces began to open up at the back.
González was later denied by Kevin Danso, while substitute Marko Arnautovic struggled to break through Argentina’s disciplined defence.
The second goal eventually arrived deep into stoppage time. Messi reacted quickest during a crowded goalmouth scramble and fired home to complete his brace and seal Argentina’s victory.
The win extended Argentina’s unbeaten run at the World Cup to eight matches and marked their ninth consecutive victory in all competitions.
Austria, meanwhile, suffered only their second defeat in 13 matches but remain in contention to qualify for the knockout stage.
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