Lionel Messi scored both goals as Argentina beat Austria 2-0, becoming the all-time top scorer in World Cup history. After the match, Messi addressed Spain's status as tournament favorites while insisting Argentina are also in strong form.
Messi's double took his World Cup tally past the previous record, though the exact number is undisclosed in reports. The match was played at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, where Argentina secured their second victory of the 2026 tournament.
When asked about Spain, a widely-touted favorite, Messi responded: "La selección española hace tiempo que viene demostrando que es una de las favoritas, tiene jugadores importantes, pero nos enfrentaremos cuando tengamos que enfrentarnos. La verdad es que nosotros también estamos bien." Source: Lavanguardia He also dismissed comparisons with Ronaldo Nazário, noting his own good health and lack of serious injuries: "Yo no tuve enfermedades graves, no pasé por el quirófano." Source: Infobae
Messi said he is not thinking about age and simply focuses on being physically fit. On whether he will rest in the next group match, he deferred to the coach: "El técnico decidirá si juego o no." Source: Lavanguardia Argentina have already secured qualification for the Round of 16.