Messi Eyes World Cup Goal Record as Argentina Face Austria

Lionel Messi is on the brink of yet another piece of footballing history as Argentina prepare to face Austria in their second FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match in Dallas.

The 39-year-old maestro scored a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria, pulling level with Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup record of 16 goals.

Messi, who turns 39 on Wednesday, broke down in tears after his first goal against Algeria, later revealing that his father is recovering from a health issue.

Despite uncertainty over his participation in the tournament, the Inter Miami forward has once again taken center stage, spearheading Argentina’s bid to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive World Cups.

The Dallas Cowboys’ air-conditioned stadium provides the perfect setting for Messi to surpass Klose’s record, though the captain himself downplayed the milestone.

‘In the end, it’s just a statistic and nothing more,’ he said.

Victory over Austria would secure Argentina’s place in the last 32 as group winners, giving coach Lionel Scaloni the chance to rest his talisman ahead of the knockout rounds.

Austria, managed by Ralf Rangnick, will pose a stern test after defeating debutants Jordan 3-1. Yet Argentina’s squad has rallied around Messi, with teammates openly declaring their willingness to fight for him.

Alexis Mac Allister praised Messi’s importance, while Rodrigo De Paul, his Inter Miami teammate, said bluntly: ‘He makes you want to go to war if he asks you to.’