Lionel Messi leads Argentina to World Cup victory over Austria
Lionel Messi has admitted he is “running on fumes” after producing another record-breaking display to fire Argentina to a 2-0 World Cup victory over Austria, reports BritPanorama.
The 38-year-old delivered a historic performance in Dallas, scoring twice to overtake Miroslav Klose and become the outright leading scorer in World Cup history with 18 goals. Despite extending his legacy and helping Argentina secure a vital win, Messi confessed the demands of this major tournament are beginning to take their toll.
“I’m tired and I’m running on fumes,” Messi said after the match. “It’s hard to think. But I’m enjoying this moment and looking forward to being with my teammates. It’s been spectacular how it has all unfolded.”
Messi’s evening had initially threatened to become frustrating. With the scores level in the first half, the Argentina captain stepped up for a penalty, awarded after Lautaro Martinez had been fouled in the box. He dragged his effort wide, spurning the chance to move clear of Klose and take sole possession of the World Cup goalscoring record. However, he recovered to open the scoring in the 38th minute, collecting possession inside the box and dispatching a composed finish beyond the Austrian goalkeeper.
Once again, Messi struck late to seal the victory, bringing his tally to five goals in just two matches in North America, placing him firmly in contention for the Golden Boot. The brace ensures that Argentina have already secured their place at the top of Group J with one game remaining.
Julian Alvarez believes Messi is continuing to demonstrate why he remains football’s greatest player. “He continues to show, even at his age, that he has the talent and all his magic,” Alvarez said. “There’s not much to say. We all see it, he’s the best in the world. It gives us peace of mind for what’s to come. This is the World Cup; everything is very close and very intense. That’s why we’re happy to have earned six points and already secured qualification.”
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez expressed similar emotions after witnessing Messi move clear of Klose. “There are no words, we can only enjoy it,” he stated. “He’s alone at the top. I’m speechless. I feel an enormous emotion that he’s Argentinian. We have to value him.”
Argentina will conclude their Group J campaign against Jordan on Sunday.
