Lionel Messi became the all-time leading goalscorer in World Cup history during Argentina’s 2-0 win over Austria in Dallas, despite missing an early penalty that left him, in his own words, ‘very angry’. For England, the Argentina captain’s milestone is a stark warning: the defending champions remain ruthless, and Thomas Tuchel’s Three Lions will need to match that level to bring the trophy home.
The record that erased a missed penalty
Messi turned a frustrating night into history. After firing his early penalty wide, the Argentina captain responded with a brace that crowns him the greatest goalscorer in World Cup finals history. ‘I kicked it badly,’ he admitted, still visibly annoyed after the match.
That ability to bounce back instantly is exactly what worries the England camp. Rather than crumbling after the miss, Messi dragged Argentina level and sealed the holders’ passage to the knockout rounds.
What it means for England
Argentina remain the benchmark rival for England in the hunt for the title. With a record-breaking Messi still decisive at 39, any route to the final could well run through the reigning champions. Thomas Tuchel knows that stopping a player capable of missing and then scoring twice in the same game is a tactical nightmare.
For England, the answer lies in Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. The long-distance duel between England’s golden generation and the Argentine legend promises to be one of the defining storylines of World Cup 2026. The Three Lions must prove they have the same mental steel.
FAQ
Why was Messi ‘very angry’ against Austria?
Messi missed an early penalty, which is rare for him. He said ‘I kicked it badly’ and admitted he was very angry, before making up for it with a brace.
What record did Messi break?
Messi officially became the all-time top scorer in World Cup history with his brace against Austria, surpassing every previous tournament goalscorer.
What was the Argentina vs Austria score?
Argentina won 2-0 in Dallas thanks to a Lionel Messi brace, securing their place in the knockout rounds.
Why does this match matter to England?
Argentina are one of England’s main rivals for the title. Messi’s form shows the level Tuchel’s side must reach to go all the way.
Can England compete with Argentina in 2026?
Yes. With Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham leading the line, England have the firepower to compete, but must show the same mental strength as Messi’s Argentina.
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