Messi scores twice as Argentina beat Austria and reach World Cup 2026 knockout stage

Argentina claimed their second consecutive victory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup and secured an early place in the knockout stage. In the second round of the group stage, Argentina defeated Austria 2-0.

The main hero of the match was once again Lionel Messi. The Argentina captain scored twice and took his tally at this World Cup to five goals. Messi is now the outright top scorer of the 2026 tournament.

He also extended his historic World Cup record. Messi now has 18 goals at World Cups — more than any other player in the history of the competition.

Argentina played this match in a highly pragmatic manner. The forwards did everything to make sure Messi was the one finishing the attacks, while the rest of the team did everything to make those goals enough for victory. Argentina remained solid defensively and did not allow Austria to get back into the game.

For the reigning world champions, this was their second win of the tournament. In the first round, Argentina comfortably beat Algeria 3-0, and after the victory over Austria, they have now guaranteed their place in the next stage.

In the final round of the group stage, Argentina will face Jordan. Austria, who remain on three points, will play a decisive match against Algeria. That game could determine second place in the group and another ticket to the knockout stage.