Messi's Historic Night in Dallas

After scoring a hat-trick against Algeria to equal Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup scoring record, the biggest question surrounding Argentina was how long it would take Lionel Messi to claim the record for himself.

The answer came sooner than expected.

Against a disciplined Austrian side, Messi delivered another unforgettable performance as Argentina secured a 2-0 victory and continued its impressive start to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Austria provided a difficult challenge

Austria entered the match with one of the strongest defensive units in the tournament, led by experienced players such as David Alaba and Kevin Danso. The match immediately developed into a physical and intense contest.

Just three minutes into the game, Lautaro Martínez was brought down inside the penalty area, leading to a VAR review and ultimately a penalty for Argentina. The stage appeared perfectly set for history.

The record had to wait

In the eighth minute, Messi stepped up with the opportunity to become the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history. Instead, he missed the penalty, leaving the match scoreless and temporarily delaying the historic moment.

For a brief moment, it seemed the record would have to wait another day. Messi had other ideas.

The goal that changed World Cup history

Argentina continued controlling possession and creating opportunities throughout the first half. Finally, in the 38th minute, Messi found space inside the box and calmly finished to put Argentina ahead 1-0.

The goal sparked celebrations throughout the stadium. More importantly, it officially moved Messi ahead of Miroslav Klose as the highest goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history.

The Argentine supporters inside the stadium erupted as their captain celebrated a moment that will be remembered forever.

Argentina remains in control

Austria attempted to fight back after halftime and pushed forward searching for an equalizer. However, Argentina maintained control of the match through a disciplined defensive performance and intelligent possession play.

The reigning world champions looked comfortable throughout the second half and rarely appeared threatened. Meanwhile, every touch from Messi generated excitement among the crowd.

Messi delivers the perfect ending

As the match entered stoppage time, Messi produced one final masterpiece. In the 94th minute, he dribbled past multiple defenders before calmly finishing to score his second goal of the night and seal the 2-0 victory.

The goal capped a remarkable individual performance and gave the Dallas crowd another historic moment to celebrate.

Argentina strengthens their title credentials

The victory gives Argentina six points from its opening two matches and effectively secures a place in the knockout rounds.

More importantly, Lionel Scaloni's side continues to look like one of the strongest contenders to lift the World Cup trophy once again.

Yet beyond the result, this night will forever belong to Lionel Messi. The Argentine legend is now the all-time leading goalscorer in FIFA World Cup history, adding another incredible achievement to one of the greatest careers football has ever seen.