Hyderabad: Lionel Messi said he is not spending time thinking about his age after becoming the all time leading scorer in World Cup history during Argentina’s 2 0 win over Austria in Arlington.
The Argentina captain scored twice to take his World Cup tally to 18 goals and move past Miroslav Klose’s long standing record. The result also sent Argentina into the Round of 32 with a game to spare.
Messi, who turns 39 this week, said his focus remains on staying physically fit and helping the team. He told reporters that he feels good and is happy to be part of a squad that continues to compete strongly in every match.
Messi breaks World Cup record as Argentina reach knockout stage
Argentina moved to the top of Group J with six points from two matches, three ahead of Austria. With qualification already secured, Messi said coach Lionel Scaloni would decide whether he plays in the final group game against Jordan and how much time he gets on the field.
Messi admitted that his early missed penalty had affected the team for a brief period, as Argentina failed to convert a few clear chances despite controlling the match. He said the side later recovered, played with more intensity and finished the game strongly.
The eight time Ballon d’Or winner opened the scoring in the 38th minute and added another goal in stoppage time to seal the victory. His first goal took him beyond Klose’s record, while the second extended his lead at the top of the World Cup scoring charts.
Messi has now scored five goals in two matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, underlining his influence on Argentina’s title defence. Argentina will now look to finish the group stage strongly before entering the knockout rounds as one of the tournament favourites.
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