Messi makes World Cup history at Cowboys' AT&T Stadium

Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina beat Austria 2-0 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, moving past Miroslav Klose for the men's World Cup goals record. The defending champions advanced toward the knockout stage atop Group J, while Dallas added another major soccer milestone to the Cowboys' home venue.

Lionel Messi turned Dallas Stadium into a World Cup landmark, scoring twice in Argentina's 2-0 win over Austria at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The goals moved Messi past Miroslav Klose for the men's World Cup goals record and pushed the defending champions to the top of Group J.

What happened

Argentina needed a result against Austria to strengthen its path through the group, and Messi supplied all of the scoring. His two goals delivered a 2-0 victory at the Dallas Cowboys' home stadium, which is temporarily branded as Dallas Stadium for the 2026 World Cup.

The performance gave Messi 18 career World Cup goals, clearing Klose's previous men's record of 16. It also continued a dominant tournament start in which Messi has accounted for every Argentina goal so far.

Why it matters

The win sent Argentina into the knockout stage atop Group J, keeping the defending champion on course in its title defense. For Messi, it marked another defining moment in what could be his final World Cup run.

Dallas now has its own place in the Messi timeline. The Cowboys' venue became the setting for another major milestone for Lionel Messi, linking one of American football's most recognizable stadiums with one of soccer's most significant records.

By the numbers

Messi is now at 18 career World Cup goals, two clear of Klose's former men's record. His 2026 scoring line includes a hat trick against Algeria and two more goals against Austria.

Argentina has scored five goals in the tournament, all from Messi. The victory also extended Argentina's World Cup winning streak to eight matches dating to 2022.

What to watch next

Argentina now turns toward its final group match before the knockout bracket is set. The result against Austria already secured its place atop Group J, but the next match will shape the rhythm and preparation for the elimination rounds.

AT&T Stadium remains a central venue in the 2026 World Cup schedule. More matches are ahead in Arlington, including knockout-round fixtures, after the stadium hosted one of the tournament's signature individual achievements.