Messi Becomes World Cup’s Top Scorer as Argentina Beat Austria

Group Stage · Group J · AT&T Stadium, Arlington · June 22, 2026

Lionel Messi recovered from an early missed penalty to score twice as Argentina beat Austria 2-0 in Arlington.

Argentina were awarded a penalty after a video review for a foul on Lautaro Martínez, but Messi dragged it wide in the ninth minute. He made amends in the 38th, finishing Facundo Medina’s pass, and added a second in stoppage time. Messi had seven shots and now has five goals in two games. His 18 World Cup goals make him the tournament’s all-time leading scorer, passing Miroslav Klose.

Austria managed one shot on target.

Argentina have six points and lead Group J. Austria stay on three.

More: Argentina at the 2026 World Cup · Austria at the 2026 World Cup · Group J guide

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Archive coverage. First published on ESO Soccer on October 2, 2026. The archive date reflects the events covered.