Messi’s Magical Performance Secures Argentina’s Win Over Austria

Lionel Messi became the World Cup’s all-time leading goalscorer on Monday, scoring twice as holders Argentina powered into the last 32 with a 2-0 victory over Austria.

Messi swept home a low finish in the 38th minute of the Group J game in Arlington, Texas to take his career World Cup goals tally to 17, one clear of the previous record of 16 he shared with Miroslav Klose.

He then extended his record to 18 goals, ramming home a finish through a crowd of defenders deep in stoppage time to put the seal on Argentina’s win.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who turns 39 on Wednesday, had blown a chance to break the record after eight minutes when he dragged a penalty wide of the post.

But the Argentina skipper made no mistake seven minutes before half-time, coolly placing his finish beyond the dive of Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.

He then completed his double in the fifth minute of stoppage time to take his tally for the tournament to five goals following his hat-trick in Argentina’s opening 3-0 win over Algeria last week.

Monday’s victory guarantees Argentina a place in the knockout rounds of the tournament, and the South Americans could clinch top spot later Monday if Jordan fail to beat Algeria.

“I’m very happy with the victory,” Messi said afterwards. “It was hugely important, tough, and hard-fought, and it gives us peace of mind for what’s ahead. The match was evenly balanced and intense, and we’re happy to have earned six points.”

AFP