Lionel Messi became the all-time top scorer in World Cup history and then added another goal for good measure, as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 in a heated encounter in Dallas, keeping their title defence on track. The legendary forward could have surpassed Miroslav Klose’s record just eight minutes into the match when Argentina were awarded a penalty for a foul by Stefan Posch on Lautaro Martinez, but Messi dragged his spot-kick wide.

Despite the tense and physical nature of the contest, it always seemed inevitable that Messi would find the back of the net. His 17th World Cup goal arrived in the 38th minute in trademark fashion, as the No.10 calmly slotted home a low cross from Facundo Medina after a clever dummy by Thiago Almada.

Austria pushed hard after the interval, applying real pressure on the Argentine defence but rarely troubling Emiliano Martinez. With almost the final kick of the match, Messi sealed the win. After initially threading a pass to Julian Alvarez, the Inter Miami star pounced on a loose ball in the box and scored at the second attempt — making it 10 goals in his last six World Cup appearances across the previous two tournaments.

Below are the player ratings for Argentina’s performers in Dallas, as Lionel Scaloni’s side secured qualification to the last 32 and moved three points clear at the top of their group.

Goalkeeper & Defence

Emiliano Martinez (6/10):
Made a solid save from a well-hit Marcel Sabitzer free-kick and otherwise had little to worry about.

Nahuel Molina (6/10):
Provided his usual attacking outlet down the right flank, though Scaloni will have appreciated his defensive discipline more in this match.

Cristian Romero (6/10):
The Tottenham defender was steady at the back until being forced off late due to a knock sustained early in the second half.

Lisandro Martinez (7/10):
The Manchester United centre-back looked composed throughout, helping Argentina manage the threat from Michael Gregoritsch and Austria’s forwards comfortably.

Facundo Medina (7/10):
A strong all-round display from the left-back, who defended aggressively and provided the assist for the opening goal. Substituted late on after being booked.

Midfield

Rodrigo De Paul (7/10):
Once again acted as Messi’s enforcer, working tirelessly on the right side of midfield and covering plenty of ground.

Alexis Mac Allister (7/10):
Operating at the base of midfield, the Brighton man shielded the defence well and transitioned play effectively, though he made a couple of reckless tackles.

Enzo Fernandez (6/10):
Given greater attacking freedom than his midfield partners, it was his pass that led to the penalty. Despite missing a few good openings later, his work rate was immense.

Attack

Lionel Messi (8/10):
After a poor penalty miss following an overly slow run-up, Messi responded in style by finishing Medina’s cross and later adding a second in stoppage time. Even as he nears 39, he remains Argentina’s driving force — a remarkable feat.

Lautaro Martinez (6/10):
Worked tirelessly and showed aggression throughout, winning the penalty with a clever run through Austria’s defence. However, he failed to create further scoring chances, a concern for Scaloni given Alvarez’s injury issues and Lautaro’s struggles in Qatar.

Thiago Almada (7/10):
His dummy for Messi’s goal was pure brilliance, and his work rate for Atletico Madrid continues to shine through. Ran himself into the ground before being substituted.

Substitutes & Manager

Nicolas Otamendi (6/10):
Replaced the injured Romero and added stability at the back, showing his usual composure and experience.

Julian Alvarez (5/10):
Despite a lingering ankle issue, came on for Lautaro in the second half but missed a golden opportunity before Messi wrapped up the win. Argentina will hope the Atletico Madrid forward recovers quickly to ease the pressure on their captain.

Nicolas Gonzalez (6/10):
Came on alongside Alvarez and nearly scored with a glancing header from a Messi corner.

Nico Tagliafico (N/A):
Substituted in late for Medina.

Leandro Paredes (5/10):
Replaced De Paul for the final eight minutes but still managed to collect a yellow card for a clumsy tackle.

Lionel Scaloni (7/10):
Not Argentina’s most convincing display, but Messi made the difference once again. The concern remains their heavy reliance on their 38-year-old captain, and Scaloni may consider resting him against Jordan to see if others can step up in his absence.