Lionel Messi scored two goals to lead Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria in a men's World Cup group stage match. The win secured Argentina's advancement to the Round of 32, while Messi became the all-time leading scorer in men's World Cup history.
Match Details
The match was played on June 24, 2025, in Dallas, Texas, though some sources list the date as June 26, 2024. Argentina's victory brought their points total to six in Group J with two matches played, while Austria remained on three points after their opening win.
Goal Record
Messi's first goal, scored in the 38th minute, was his 17th in World Cup matches. This surpassed the previous record of 16 goals held by Germany's Miroslav Klose in the men's tournament. The goal came from a left-footed finish after a pass from Facundo Medina, with Thiago Almada letting the ball run through his legs. Some accounts state Almada set up the first goal by passing to Medina, whose return pass was allowed through by Almada for Messi to score from close range.
With his second goal in the 95th minute (stoppage time), Messi's World Cup total reached 18 goals. This also surpassed the women's World Cup record of 17 goals held by Brazil's Marta, making Messi the overall all-time leading scorer in combined men's and women's World Cup history.
Second Goal
Messi's second goal came after Julian Alvarez's initial shot was saved. Messi scored the rebound from six yards out after a scramble in the box.
Missed Penalty
Messi missed a penalty in the eighth or ninth minute, after a VAR review awarded Argentina a spot kick. His shot went wide of the goal. This was his third World Cup penalty miss of his career, with a previous miss coming against Poland in the 2022 World Cup.
Team Performance
After taking the lead, Argentina did not create significant chances. Austria showed slightly more threat in the second half but did not score. Austria's David Alaba made two defensive interventions before the first goal. Austria created few clear chances, though Michael Gregoritsch and Marcel Sabitzer had late attempts. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was reportedly seriously troubled once.
Player Statements
Following the match, Messi spoke to Telemundo, stating:
"I'm really happy about the win, especially as it's such a crucial victory, hard-fought and well-earned, but one that gives us peace of mind for what lies ahead. This is the World Cup; it was a very evenly matched, very intense match, and we're happy to have picked up six points and to have already qualified."
Notes
Messi turned 39 years old on June 27th, the Wednesday following the match. He has now scored five goals in two matches during this World Cup.