Argentina have secured a place in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a 2-0 win over Austria in their second Group H match.
Lionel Messi led the charge with a brace as the defending champions continued their strong start to the tournament.
The result confirmed Argentina’s qualification alongside three other teams.
Messi misses penalty but responds with goals
Messi had an early opportunity to open the scoring from the penalty spot in the first half, but he failed to convert.
However, the Argentina captain later redeemed himself by finishing a well-worked team move to break the deadlock.
The goal also took him to a historic milestone, making him one of the highest scorers in World Cup history.
He added a second goal in stoppage time to seal all three points for Argentina.
Four teams confirm knockout stage places
With the result, Argentina join Mexico, the United States and Germany as teams that have already secured qualification for the Round of 32.
All four sides have impressed in their opening group-stage matches and will now turn their attention to topping their respective groups.
Further fixtures will determine final group standings and knockout pairings as the tournament progresses.