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The 39-year-old captain scored twice in Arlington, Texas, taking his World Cup tally to 18 goals and helping the defending champions maintain their perfect start in Group J.

Argentina were made to work hard by an energetic Austrian side that pressed aggressively from the opening whistle and disrupted their rhythm for much of the first half.

Messi had an early opportunity to break the scoring record when Argentina were awarded a penalty in the seventh minute after Lautaro Martínez was brought down in the box. However, the forward sent his spot kick wide, leaving the historic milestone on hold.

Austria continued to trouble Argentina with their high pressing and compact midfield, limiting space for Messi and Martínez. Marcel Sabitzer, making his 100th appearance for Austria, helped orchestrate several dangerous attacks, while Alexander Schlager produced key saves to keep the score level.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 38th minute. Facundo Medina advanced down the left flank before Thiago Almada cleverly allowed the ball to run through to Messi, who curled a precise finish into the corner to put Argentina ahead.

The goal moved Messi past all previous World Cup scorers and gave Argentina a 1-0 lead at halftime despite a competitive opening 45 minutes from Austria.

Austria pushed forward after the break in search of an equalizer and nearly found one when Sabitzer forced Emiliano Martínez into a strong save from a free kick. It was Austria’s first shot on target of the match.

Argentina gradually regained control and created several opportunities on the counterattack. Enzo Fernández went close after being set up by Almada, while Messi tested Schlager with another effort midway through the second half.

Coach Lionel Scaloni refreshed his attack in the 64th minute, introducing Julián Álvarez and Nicolás González, while Austria responded with a triple substitution that included veteran striker Marko Arnautović.

Messi sealed the victory late in the second half’s stoppage time with his second goal of the night, extending Argentina’s lead to 2-0 and ending Austria’s hopes of a comeback.

The result guarantees Argentina a place in the Round of 16 with one group match remaining. Austria, meanwhile, must now fight for qualification in their final Group J fixture.

Messi’s brace not only secured Argentina’s progression but also added another milestone to a remarkable international career, further strengthening his place in World Cup history.