Lionel Messi became the leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history on Monday as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 in their Group J clash, with the veteran captain delivering another decisive performance for the defending champions.
The 39-year-old forward scored twice to take his World Cup tally to 18 goals, moving past German legend Miroslav Klose’s long-standing record and cementing his place at the top of the tournament’s all-time scoring charts.
Messi had already drawn level with Klose’s mark of 16 goals after netting a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 opening win over Algeria. Against Austria, he went one step further, producing another standout display to set a new record.
The Argentine skipper thought he had opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 38th minute, but the goal was disallowed following a VAR review. The setback proved brief.
Just two minutes later, Facundo Medina delivered a precise pass into the box, and Messi calmly finished to give Argentina a 1-0 lead.
Austria struggled to break down Argentina’s well-organised defence and were further frustrated before half-time when Stefan Posch was booked.
Argentina controlled possession for much of the second half, though Austria remained in the contest until the closing stages. Medina, who assisted the opening goal, was cautioned in the 76th minute, while Konrad Laimer was also booked for Austria.
With Austria pushing forward in search of an equaliser, Argentina sealed the result in stoppage time. After Leandro Paredes received a yellow card in the second minute of added time, Messi struck again three minutes later with a clinical finish to make it 2-0.
The victory strengthens Argentina’s position at the top of Group J and moves them closer to qualification for the knockout stages, while Austria face a difficult path to progression.
(The Whistler)