Argentina secured their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage with a 2-0 victory over Austria in Group J, thanks to another outstanding performance from Lionel Messi.The 38-year-old captain continued his remarkable tournament form by scoring both goals, only days after netting a hat-trick against Algeria.

Despite missing an early penalty after Lautaro Martinez was fouled in the box, Messi remained influential throughout the match and eventually made history.Argentina took the lead before half-time following a well-worked attacking move initiated by Messi.He timed his run perfectly to meet a low cross from Facundo Medina and finished first time into the bottom corner.

The goal was his 17th in FIFA World Cup finals, moving him ahead of Germany legend Miroslav Klose to become the leading goalscorer in men's World Cup history.Austria, led defensively by David Alaba, worked hard to contain the defending champions and denied Messi on several occasions.However, Argentina controlled much of the contest and looked the more dangerous side throughout.

In stoppage time, Messi sealed the victory when he reacted quickest during a goalmouth scramble and forced the ball over the line for his second goal of the evening.

The strike was his 18th World Cup goal, allowing him to surpass Brazil's Marta and become the highest scorer across both men's and women's World Cup tournaments.The result guarantees Argentina's progression to the last 32 and further strengthens their status as one of the favourites to retain the title.

Messi's latest goals also extended his scoring streak to six consecutive World Cup matches, underlining his enduring influence on the international stage.