ARLINGTON, Texas — Lionel Messi is now the most prolific goal scorer in World Cup history, but when asked to reflect on the milestone after Monday night’s match, the 38-year-old kept it simple: “I’m very tired.”
Despite his exhaustion, Messi delivered a memorable performance, netting two goals in Argentina’s hard-fought 2-0 win over Austria — though he did miss a penalty kick in the first half. The victory secured Argentina’s place in the tournament’s knockout stage, giving the team six points through two Group J contests.
His first goal came off a low cross from Facundo Medina, which Messi finished cleanly on the first touch. That strike pulled him even with Brazilian legend Marta at 17 World Cup goals, a combined total spanning both the men’s and women’s competitions. A second goal deep in stoppage time pushed him past Marta and gave him sole possession of the all-time record.
“I’m very happy with the win,” Messi said after the match. “It was a hugely important victory, a tough one, and one we worked hard for. It gives us calm for what’s coming.”
Austria made things more difficult after halftime, and Messi acknowledged that his missed penalty could have made the game more manageable. Still, he expressed satisfaction with how the night unfolded.
“The truth is that the way it turned out today was spectacular,” he said. “I had the penalty that could have increased the lead, but I’m happy with the result and with the team’s work.”
Messi, who is set to turn 39 later this week, now has five goals at this World Cup. Argentina advances to the round of 32 with one group stage match still remaining.
