Lionel Messi continues to defy age as the 39-year-old superstar edges closer to shattering Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup goals record, with defending champions Argentina set to take on Austria in their second Group L match on Monday.
The Argentine captain reached 16 World Cup goals after netting a hat-trick in a commanding 3-0 victory over Algeria, drawing level with the German legend. An emotional Messi broke down in tears following his first strike, later linked to news that his father is recovering from a health issue.
Despite initial uncertainty over his participation in the 2026 tournament on North American soil, Messi answered the call to lead Argentina’s bid to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive World Cups. The Inter Miami forward, widely regarded as the greatest player of all time, was instrumental in Argentina’s triumph four years ago in Qatar.
A win against Ralf Rangnick’s Austria at the air-conditioned home of the Dallas Cowboys would leave Lionel Scaloni’s side on the verge of qualifying for the knockout stages. Austria, meanwhile, have started their campaign strongly, defeating debutants Jordan 3-1. “In the end, it’s just a statistic and nothing more,” Messi said of the impending record.
Messi’s influence extends far beyond the pitch. Teammates speak glowingly of his leadership and the motivational effect he has on the squad. “If anyone thought this group was better off without Leo, today it became clear that Leo is the most important of them all,” said midfielder Alexis Mac Allister.
Coach Scaloni, who played alongside Messi at the 2006 World Cup, has built a supportive environment around the captain. “He’s playing with a group of friends, with people that are going to play with their heart for him,” Scaloni said. Forward Julian Alvarez added: “He’s been my idol since I was a kid. Naturally, you want to repay that.”
Midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, Messi’s club teammate at Inter Miami, captured the sentiment more directly: “He makes you want to go to war if he asks you to.”
With his legendary status now firmly cemented among Argentine fans, the timeless Messi remains the heartbeat of a team determined to go the distance once more.
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