Lionel Messi becomes the men’s World Cup all-time leading goalscorer as Argentina beat Austria 2-0 in a Group J match in Dallas, securing a place in the knockout stage. Messi misses a penalty early in the first half after Lautaro Martínez is fouled in the box, but he later breaks the deadlock just before half-time. Reports describe his first goal as a left-footed finish following build-up play that he initiates, which takes his World Cup tally past Miroslav Klose to move him clear at the top of the all-time scoring list.
Austria, with David Alaba prominent in defence, largely absorbs Argentina’s pressure and remains disciplined during the first half, with few clear chances. Argentina control possession after the break and keep the game under control as the match progresses. Deep into stoppage time, Messi adds a second goal, reacting quickest after a goalmouth scramble to extend his tally and seal the 2-0 win.
The victory puts Argentina through to the Round of 32 with a game to spare, with multiple outlets also noting Messi’s scoring run across successive World Cup matches.
