Argentina vs Austria, FIFA World Cup 2026: Lionel Messi's historic brace powers Argentina to victory - Action in images

Argentina vs Austria, FIFA World Cup 2026: Argentina qualify for the knockouts after a 1-0 win against Austria.

Published on: Jun 23, 2026 12:50 AM IST

Sports

Share via

• 
• 
• 
• 

Copy link

• 

1/8

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Jun 23, 2026 12:50 AM

Lionel Messi scored in each half as Argentina won 2-0 against Austria on Monday to seal their qualification in Round of 32.  (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters)

2/8

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Jun 23, 2026 12:50 AM

There was drama at the start of the match as Messi, looking to match Miroslav Klose, missed a penalty in the opening half. (REUTERS)

3/8

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Jun 23, 2026 12:50 AM

Lionel Messi has now missed a penalty in each of his last three World Cup editions.  (REUTERS)

4/8

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Jun 23, 2026 12:50 AM

It was an eventful first half for Messi. After getting denied twice, he finally scored in the 38th minute to become the topscorer in World Cup history. (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters)

5/8

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Jun 23, 2026 12:50 AM

One for the camera! Probably the hardest save he had to make in the entire game. Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez stops a ball from a free kick during the World Cup Group J match (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

6/8

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Jun 23, 2026 12:50 AM

In the dying minutes of the final half, Messi found the back of the net again to score his 18th World Cup goal.  (AP Photo/Sam Hodde)

7/8

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Jun 23, 2026 12:50 AM

Austria showed far more resistance than Algeria did in Argentina's 3-0 opening win last week, especially in the opening half, but lacked the bite in the first three.  (IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters)

8/8

View Photos in a new improved layout

Published on Jun 23, 2026 12:50 AM

Argentina will face Jordan in their final group game on June 27 at the same venue.  (REUTERS)