It was fitting that Lionel Messi was the one to make history on this significant day, possibly even in Dallas itself. With a precise left-footed strike, he etched his name as the highest goalscorer in World Cup history. An event that already felt monumental was marked by a moment that will be remembered, and the brilliance of this football icon promises even more to come. A golden boot would make a lovely gift as he approaches his 39th birthday this Wednesday.
Expectations are high because Messi shows no signs of slowing down. Just four minutes into stoppage time, Austria, though competent, failed to make a dent in the celebratory atmosphere. By the end of the first half, Messi had already netted his 17th World Cup goal, looking poised to secure victory in a match that otherwise lacked excitement. But then he added another, bringing his total to 18. There has never been a player quite like him, with a footballing intellect that has only sharpened over a remarkable career spanning more than 20 years.
Despite not needing to follow up on a pass sent to Julián Alvarez, whose shot was saved, Messi chose to pursue the play. Even when a shot of his was blocked, he pressed on while others hesitated, firing a low shot that once again echoed in the closed stadium, igniting the excitement of the Albiceleste supporters.
While he may come off as modest, Messi’s passion is undeniable. He seemed to relish the moment of breaking the record when he scored after Thiago Almada allowed a cutback from Facundo Medina to run through. His first-time shot past Alexander Schlager was reminiscent of countless goals he has scored before, yet this one carried a unique weight. A triumphant roar and a triumphant fist pump confirmed his understanding of the significance.
For Argentina, the occasion was steeped in emotion and rich symbolism. Messi’s achievement fell 40 years after Diego Maradona’s legendary handball against England, an event that is etched in football history. To add to this poignant connection, he set the record in the city where Maradona faced personal and professional turmoil after being expelled from the 1994 World Cup due to doping. In reaching such heights, Messi has effectively put to rest some lingering shadows.
Was there ever any doubt that this would all culminate perfectly? Initially, yes, especially after Messi missed a penalty early on, a moment that felt surreal. However, the true breakthrough came half an hour later when everyone could finally celebrate the shattered record. With three missed penalties in World Cup matches to date, Messi now holds the record for the most failed spot-kicks.
The afternoon was one of grand scale and magnificence. Most Argentina matches at this level tend to carry such gravitas; a significant portion of the crowd was clearly supporting Messi and his teammates, creating an electrifying atmosphere from the outset. By the end, it was evident that, once again, football had orchestrated an event that was almost immune to cynicism.
Nevertheless, Argentina’s competitors likely found a degree of satisfaction when Messi, after being awarded a penalty due to a foul on Lautaro Martínez by Stefan Posch, sent his shot wide of the left post. What seemed to be a sure goal turned into a moment of collective disbelief among the fans.
Messi quickly regrouped, almost creating an own goal from David Alaba with a dazzling display of footwork, but Austria’s organized defense proved challenging. They pressed hard against Argentina, whose attacking opportunities became limited until Messi finally found redemption.
Ralf Rangnick expressed frustration that a challenge on Xaver Schlager by Alexis Mac Allister prior to Messi’s goal was not reviewed. He may have had a point, but ultimately, Austria couldn’t change the tide of destiny.
In the second half, Austria pushed for an equalizer, with Emiliano Martínez saving a free-kick from Marcel Sabitzer and substitute Patrick Wimmer sending a header wide as time ran out. It was unexpected when their renowned aggressive play slowed down late in the match, especially with Group J supremacy on the line. Meanwhile, Messi continued his relentless quest for new records, showing no signs of fatigue.
