SportFootballLionel MessiLionel Messi scored twice to become the World Cup's all-time leading goal scorer as Argentina beat Austria 2-0 to book their place in the last 3221:07, 22 Jun 2026Lionel Messi admitted the emotion of creating more World Cup history had left him worn out. Messi's brace to see Argentina beat Austria 2-0 in Dallas, saw him overtake Miroslav Klose as the greatest scorer the tournament has ever seen.‌The footballing icon took his tally to 17 in total, including five in two games in North America to lead the race for the Golden Boot. Argentina are now all-but guaranteed to win Group J and face last-32 opponents in Messi's adopted home of Miami.‌Messi admitted his blockbuster start to the finals had been spectacular - but was taking its toll. Messi, who also missed a first half penalty, said: "I'm tired and I'm running on fumes. 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."I had the penalty, which could have increased my tally. But perhaps the others wouldn't have come, you never know. I'm happy with the team."Team-mate Julian Alvarez insisted Messi is continuing to prove he is football's undisputed GOAT. And that Messi's 'magic' was giving the defending champions genuine belief they can go on to defend their crown.‌Alvarez said: "He continues to demonstrate, even at his age, that he has the talent and all his magic. 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."‌Licha Martínez attempted to sum up the feelings in the Argentine camp. He said: "There are no words, we can only enjoy it. He's alone at the top. I'm speechless. I feel an enormous emotion that he's Argentinian. We have to value him.”Leandro Paredes added: "It's crazy, he continues to surprise us. It's a pleasure for us to try and enjoy him every day, in every training session and match.”Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.Article continues belowChoose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌Lionel MessiArgentina football teamWorld Cup 2026