Messi Inspires Argentina Past Austria and Into World Cup Knockout Stage

Argentina secured their place in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a hard-fought 2-0 victory over Austria in Dallas, as captain Lionel Messi once again proved decisive for the reigning world champions.

The South American giants started brightly and were awarded an early penalty after a VAR review determined that Austrian defender Stefan Posch had fouled Lisandro Martínez inside the penalty area.

Messi stepped forward to take the spot-kick but unexpectedly failed to convert, dragging his effort wide of the target and giving Austria a lifeline.

The miss appeared to energize the Europeans, who gradually settled into the contest and began to threaten Argentina’s defence. Midfield stars Marcel Sabitzer, David Alaba and Konrad Laimer combined effectively to put pressure on the world champions and create several promising attacking situations.

However, just when Austria seemed to be gaining momentum, Argentina struck through their talisman.

In the 38th minute, Messi arrived at the far post to meet a low delivery from Facundo Medina, calmly guiding the ball into the net to hand Argentina the lead.

The goal carried historic significance as it marked Messi’s 17th FIFA World Cup goal, moving him ahead of former Germany striker Miroslav Klose to become the tournament’s all-time leading goalscorer.

Austria emerged from the interval determined to respond and created several opportunities. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez was called into action on multiple occasions, producing a series of important saves to preserve his side’s advantage.

One of his standout moments came when he brilliantly denied Sabitzer from a dangerous free-kick as coach Ralf Rangnick watched his side push for an equaliser.

Argentina almost doubled their lead in the 72nd minute when Nico González rose highest to meet a Messi corner, only to see his powerful header drift narrowly wide of the post.

As the match entered its closing stages, Austria committed more players forward in search of a goal, leaving spaces at the back for Argentina to exploit.

González was later denied by defender Kevin Danso, while veteran striker Marko Arnautović struggled to break down Argentina’s disciplined defensive structure.

The decisive moment arrived deep into stoppage time when Messi reacted quickest inside a crowded penalty area, firing home from close range to complete his brace and put the result beyond doubt.

The victory extends Argentina’s unbeaten run at the World Cup to eight matches and represents their ninth consecutive win across all competitions, reinforcing their status as one of the favourites to retain the title.

For Austria, the defeat ends an impressive run of form and represents only their second loss in 13 matches. Despite the setback, they remain well positioned to challenge for a place in the knockout phase of the tournament.