Recorded their second win in as many matches, securing a place in the knockout stage with a 2-0 victory over Austria at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Included in the starting lineup by Lionel Scaloni, Lautaro Martinez played 64 minutes before being substituted by Julian Alvarez.

Once again, it was an outstanding display from Lionel Messi that made the difference against Austria. The Argentina star scored both goals, bringing his total at this World Cup to five. In doing so, he moved clear at the top of the tournament’s all-time scoring list with 18 goals, surpassing Miroslav Klose’s previous record of 16.

However, the match did not start particularly well for Argentina’s number 10. Messi missed a penalty after only nine minutes, awarded following a foul on Lautaro. He made up for it in the 38th minute with a trademark finish, arriving to meet Medina’s cross and beating Schlager at the near post with a first-time side-footed strike. He then wrapped up the victory in stoppage time at the second attempt after his initial effort was blocked.

Argentina now have six points in Group J and will complete their group-stage campaign against Jordan at 04:00 CEST on Sunday 28 June.