Argentina advanced to World Cup playoffs early. Messi scored all five of its five goals
The Argentina national team has advanced to the playoffs of the 2026 FIFA World Cup ahead of schedule, defeating Austria 2-0 in the second-round match of Group J.
Photo: AP Photo/Ashley Landis
Early in the match, the Argentinians were awarded a penalty after a foul on Lautaro Martínez. However, Lionel Messi failed to open the scoring, shooting wide of the goal.
Nevertheless, before halftime, the Argentina captain rectified the situation and scored the first goal after a pass from the left wing. This goal became the 38-year-old forward's 17th at World Cups, allowing him to become the top scorer in the tournament's almost century-long history.
In added time of the second half, Messi completed a brace and further improved his record, bringing his goal tally at World Cups to 18.
In the first round, Argentina thrashed Algeria 3-0 (where, by the way, Messi also scored all the goals), while Austria defeated Jordan — 3-1. After two matches, the Argentinians have six points and have already secured their place in the playoffs. Austria, with three points, is in second place in the group.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is being held in the USA, Mexico, and Canada. For the first time in the tournament's history, 48 national teams are participating. From each group, the top two teams advance to the playoffs, along with the eight best teams among those who finished in third place.
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