Argentina vs Austria LIVE: World Cup 2026 result, latest updates and reaction | OneFootball

Holders earn second win of tournament

Lionel Messi wrote himself further into footballing history as he became the all-time leading World Cup goalscorer during Argentina’s 2-0 win over Austria in Arlington, Texas. The 39-year-old was just one goal away from surpassing the great Miroslav Klose, and the Inter Miami forward notched both goals at the AT&T Stadium to smash the record as the holders topped Group J.

He was handed an early opportunity to break the record from the spot as Lautaro Martinez was fouled by Stefan Posch, in a decision overturned by VAR. Messi uncharactersitically missed from 12 yards, slotting wide of the post, but he had his moment later in the first half, sweeping home past Alexander Schlager after a flowing Argentine move.

He doubled his tally in second-half stoppage time, persisting after being denied not once but twice by a resolute Austrian defence, as he forced home the goal that killed an otherwise lacklustre game. Lionel Scaloni’s holders top Group J, and will progress into the knockout rounds as group winners. Messi has scored all five of his country’s goals in this summer’s competition.