Lionel Messi netted both goals as Argentina cruised past Austria with a 2-0 victory in World Cup Group J play. The performance solidified Argentina’s position atop the group and advanced them into the knockout stage with one match still remaining.

Messi’s brace brought his career World Cup tally to 18 goals, the most scored by any player in World Cup history across men and women’s competition. The achievement capped a remarkable tournament run that has seen the veteran Argentine striker assert his dominance on the world’s biggest sporting stage.

With the victory, Argentina improved to three points from two matches and a goal differential of plus-five. The team faces Jordan in their final group match, but progression to the Round of 16 is already assured.

Austria put up resistance but lacked the creativity to trouble Argentina’s defense. The Central European side remains in contention for advancing as one of the best third-place finishers across all groups.

Argentina’s performances across the tournament have established them as favorites for the competition. Manager Lionel Scaloni has constructed a balanced side that combines defensive solidity with creative flair, anchored by Messi’s experience and proven tournament pedigree.