Argentina became one of the first teams to secure a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup knockout rounds after defeating Austria 2-0. As so often over the past two decades, Lionel Messi was the difference-maker, scoring both goals despite missing an early penalty.

The victory leaves the reigning world champions in complete control of their group and on course to finish top of the standings.

Penalty Missed…

The match began with a golden opportunity for Argentina to take an early lead.

After a VAR review, the referee awarded a penalty for a foul on Lautaro Martinez inside the box. Messi stepped up looking for his fourth goal of the tournament, but Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager guessed correctly and made the save.

It was only the third missed World Cup penalty of Messi's remarkable international career.

Fortunately for Argentina, the setback proved little more than a footnote.

Austria Make Life Difficult

Unlike many teams that face Argentina, Austria refused to sit back and defend.

Ralf Rangnick's side pressed aggressively, competed well in midfield and looked capable of causing problems whenever they moved forward. However, they lacked precision in the final third and struggled to seriously test Emiliano Martinez.

Marcel Sabitzer came closest to breaking the deadlock for the Europeans, but his effort was blocked before it could trouble the Argentine goalkeeper.

Record-Breaking Moment

As the first half progressed, Argentina gradually imposed themselves on the contest.

Their breakthrough arrived in the 38th minute when Facundo Medina delivered a dangerous ball into the area. Thiago Almada cleverly allowed it to run through, creating space for Messi, who drilled a powerful finish into the net.

The goal carried extra significance beyond giving Argentina the lead. It moved Messi into sole possession of the record for most goals scored in World Cup final tournaments, adding yet another milestone to his legendary career.

Champions Show Their Experience

After halftime, Argentina played with the composure expected from defending champions.

Rather than chasing additional goals, Lionel Scaloni's side focused on controlling possession and limiting Austria's opportunities. The Europeans enjoyed periods of pressure but rarely looked capable of finding an equalizer.

Sabitzer again came closest, forcing Martinez into an excellent save from a free kick, but Argentina remained comfortable throughout much of the second half.

Messi Seals It Late

Austria committed more players forward in the closing stages as they searched for a way back into the match.

That approach created space at the other end, and Argentina eventually took advantage. Deep into stoppage time, a loose ball inside the penalty area fell kindly for Messi, whose shot took a deflection before finding the net.

The goal secured a 2-0 victory, completed Messi's second brace of the tournament and took his tally to five goals in just two matches, which makes him leading in FIFA World Cup 2026 top scorers list.

Argentina Looking Like Title Favorites Again

With six points from two games, Argentina have already guaranteed themselves a place in the knockout rounds and are overwhelming favorites to finish first in the group.

The Albiceleste will now turn their attention to a final group-stage meeting with Jordan, a match that appears significantly less demanding on paper.

For the rest of the tournament, however, the message is clear. Argentina remain one of the strongest contenders for the trophy, and Messi continues to prove that age is no obstacle when it comes to deciding the biggest matches in football.