Lionel Messi, two days shy of his 39th birthday, scored both goals in Argentina’s 2‑0 win over Austria, cementing another chapter in his World Cup legacy. The brace made him the tournament’s all‑time leading scorer and the third player ever to net in six successive World Cups. Argentina moved to the top of Group C, keeping their title defence still alive.

In six World Cup matches Messi has contributed to 12 goals – ten scored, two assisted – and created a tournament‑record 76 chances. His double against Austria lifted him ahead of France’s Just Fontaine (1958) and Brazil’s Jairzinho (1970) as only the third player to score in six successive matches. He also missed a penalty, tying the record for most attempts and misses at a single tournament.

Messi’s brilliance masks Argentina’s growing dependence on his production. Critics note the side must find other scorers as Scaloni leans heavily on the veteran. The missed spot‑kick highlighted this vulnerability, yet the subsequent brace salvaged three points and preserved their momentum. Argentina remain group leaders, but any lapse could expose the thinness of a Messi‑centric attack.