Messi turns Austria double into another World Cup record

Lionel Messi scored both goals as Argentina beat Austria 2-0, taking him to 18 World Cup goals and making him the competition's all-time leading scorer. The Argentina captain moved clear of Miroslav Klose despite missing an early penalty in the same match.

The achievement adds another layer to a remarkable international career arc. Messi had stepped away from Argentina duty in 2016 after another painful final defeat, but his return has since included two Copa America titles, the 2022 World Cup, and now another landmark at his sixth World Cup.

The numbers in the BBC report underline how unusual this late-career run has become: 18 goals in 28 World Cup appearances, 12 of those goals after turning 35, and all five of Argentina's goals at the current tournament so far. He also became only the third player, after Just Fontaine and Jairzinho, to score in six consecutive World Cup matches.

There is still a team question beneath the celebration. Argentina are already through to the last 32, but with Messi responsible for every one of their goals at this World Cup, editors may want to watch whether Lionel Scaloni's side can find scoring support beyond their captain as the knockout rounds approach.