Messi reflects on World Cup scoring record and penalty miss

Lionel Messi called the night in Dallas "truly spectacular" after becoming the World Cup's all-time leading goalscorer in Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria. The Inter Miami forward scored twice to secure La Albiceleste's place in the round of 32 and surpass Miroslav Klose's long-standing record.

He described the match as "very important, very tough, and hard-fought," saying the victory brings peace of mind for what is to come. Messi added he was "very happy for the win above all," emphasising the team's work and contribution. Messi missed a first-half penalty with a stuttered approach but suggested the miss might have helped keep the match intense: "Today I had the penalty that I could have increased the score with, but if I had made the penalty, perhaps I wouldn't have reached the other two either.

... I'm happy with the result, the participation, and the work of the team." With six points from their opening two Group J matches, the defending champions have already sealed progression to the round of 32.

Argentina, Dallas

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