AFCON 2025
Lionel Messi is taking the World Cup by storm as the 39-year-old powered Argentina to their second win at the competition.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or winner scored twice to help the defending champions see off Austria in Arlington Texas.
Messi had earlier missed a seemingly controversial penalty to put Argentina ahead in the first half but missed the chance.
However, Messi redeemed himself in the 38th minute as he powered a fine strike into the net after Facundo Medina laid a pass for him.
Former Manchester United midfielder Marcel Sabitzer struck a brilliant free-kick towards goal but Emiliano Martinez made a great save to deny the attempt.
Lionel Messi recorded his fifth goal of the tournament as he sealed the win from a rebound in the fifth minute of added time.
Argentina sit comfortably at the top of Group J with six points, five goals and a +5 goal difference. The win also extends their unbeaten record at the World Cup to eight matches – six wins and two draws.
Meanwhile, Messi is the leading goal scorer with five goals after two matches as he sets his sights on leading Argentina to a successive World Cup triumph.
