Lionel Messi chases more World Cup history as Argentina take on Austria in a potential Group J decider.
Messi moved level with Miroslav Klose as the all-time leading top scorer in tournament history with a hat-trick in Argentina’s opener against Algeria, and will have the outright record in his sights. That 3-0 win represented an excellent start to the World Cup for the defending champions, who look well placed to challenge again for the trophy over the next few weeks.
Standing in their way today in Dallas are an Austria side who also began with a win over Jordan. It was an imperfect performance in many ways from Ralf Rangnick’s men, but even a draw here would be enough to all but book their place in the knockout rounds as the action intensifies. Can they deny Messi and co.?
Follow all of the latest from the World Cup clash with our live blog below:
The extraordinary numbers behind Lionel Messi – and the all-time World Cup record now in his grasp
Richard Jolly, meanwhile, profiles a player who may end this World Cup with a genuine claim to be the greatest in tournament history.
Lionel Messi creates more history with Argentina after fabulous hat-trick reveals World Cup truth
What did Lionel Messi’s hat-trick mean in the context of Argentina’s campaign? Jack Rathborn took a look:
Lionel Messi equals World Cup top goalscorer record after stunning Argentina hat-trick
It was some start to a sixth World Cup for Lionel Messi as he moved level with Miroslav Klose after a hat-trick in Argentina’s opener.
Argentina vs Austria LIVE
Argentina and Austria resume their World Cup campaigns as two nations off to a winning start meet in Dallas (or Arlington, to be exact). Will it be history for Lionel Messi as he chases the tournament scoring record outright? Or can Austria deny the defending champions and book their place in the knockout rounds?
Kick off is at 6pm BST.
