43

Argentina delivered a confident group-stage performance, outclassing Austria 2-0. Lionel Messi was the sole hero, opening the scoring in the 38th minute and sealing the victory with a stoppage‑time strike.

Key moments

• 38' – Lionel Messi: The maestro, already a multiple Ballon d'Or winner, sliced through the Austrian defence with a silky touch from outside the box, slotting home his first goal. His vision and clinical finish underlined his role as Argentina’s talisman.
• 90+5' – Lionel Messi: In the dying seconds of extra time, Messi unleashed a precise low drive from a tight angle inside the penalty area, netting his second of the night. The strike capped a masterclass and cemented his status as the tournament’s defining player.