The 2026 World Cup already has its first firm candidate: Lionel Messi’s Argentina. With a superb performance from the captain, who scored a brace against Austria, the Albiceleste sealed their place in the Round of 16 and secured the leadership of Group J. Scaloni’s team, which had already beaten Algeria, added its second victory and made it clear they are going for everything.
Messi, once again, was the center of attention. Not only for the goals, but for the records he continues to break. With 18 goals, he surpassed Miroslav Klose as the all-time top scorer in World Cup history. He also became the oldest player to appear in six editions of the tournament. International media hailed him as «the best in history» and «master of the world.» The football world bows at his feet.
But the path was not easy. Argentina struggled against Austria, who put up a fight until the end. Messi missed a penalty but recovered with two decisive strikes that defined the match. «It was a very hard-fought, tough, and laborious victory,» the captain said after the match. From the bench, Scaloni enjoyed his team’s commitment and his star’s ability to overcome adversity.
The atmosphere in the locker room is one of contained euphoria. Teammates hugged Messi, who ran to greet his family in the stands. Lisandro Martínez, emotional, whispered in his ear: «Enjoy it, don’t think about what happened.» A reference to the unfounded rumors about his father’s health that circulated during the week. The group united to support the captain.
Meanwhile, other teams also made history. Norway, with a phenomenal Erling Haaland, beat Senegal 3-2 and qualified for the Round of 16 for the first time. The players celebrated with a traditional song that went viral. Haaland, with two great goals, stole the show.
Algeria and Jordan played a thrilling match in San Francisco. Both needed to win to keep their chances alive. The coin danced until the end, but history ultimately fell on the side of the Algerians, who keep their hopes of advancing alive.
Argentina awaits its Round of 16 opponent. With Messi in a state of grace and a team that functions like a machine, hopes are growing. The dream of a back-to-back championship is more alive than ever. But, as the more cautious warn, in such a tight World Cup, any lapse can be fatal. For now, the Scaloneta enjoys the moment.
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para mi messi es un capo total argentina la mejor del mundo los zurdos de austria ni la pelota vieron este equipo va por el bi campeonato los zurditos de siempre llorando jaja vamos argentina carajo aguante messi y la patria
Para mí Messi es el más grande de la historia, carajo! Argentina líder del grupo J, esto huele a tercera copa mundial. Austria? Unos muertos, como las corporaciones que nos quieren robar el fútbol del pueblo. Vamoo peronistas del mundo unidos, que viva la patria y el idolo!