Lionel Messi creates history as Argentina beats Austria 2-0 to seal a place in the knockout rounds
The result guarantees Argentina's advancement from Group J with one group match left to play.
XtraTime Newsdesk: Lionel Messi made World Cup history as Argentina secured a 2-0 victory over Austria at Dallas Stadium, booking their spot in the Round of 32.
The Albiceleste captain endured early frustration when his 9th-minute penalty was saved by Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager. However, Messi redeemed himself in the 38th minute, sliding home the opening goal to score his 17th career World Cup goal, officially surpassing Germany’s Miroslav Klose as the all-time top scorer in men's tournament history.
Austria put up a disciplined defensive performance but struggled to break through Argentina's backline, registering only one shot on target. As the Europeans pushed forward for a late equalizer, Messi struck again in stoppage time (90+5'), sealing the 2-0 win with his 18th tournament goal. The result guarantees Argentina's advancement from Group J with one group match left to play.
(Photo Courtesy: AFASeleccionEN/Twitter)
