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Argentina captain Lionel Messi has edged closer to making more football history as the reigning world champions prepare to face Austria in their second Group L match on Monday.
Messi scored a hat-trick in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Algeria, drawing level with German legend Miroslav Klose’s all-time World Cup scoring record of 16 goals.
The Inter Miami star became emotional after scoring his first goal against Algeria, and it was later revealed that his father is recovering from an unspecified health issue.
Despite uncertainty over whether he would take part in the tournament, Messi eventually committed to representing Argentina as they seek to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the World Cup title.
A victory against Austria would move Lionel Scaloni’s side closer to securing a place in the knockout stage and could also provide Messi with the perfect opportunity to break Klose’s long-standing record.
Speaking about the milestone, Messi, who turns 39 on Wednesday, played down its significance.
“In the end, it’s just a statistic and nothing more,” he said.
However, Austria are expected to provide a tough challenge after opening their campaign with a 3-1 victory over tournament debutants Jordan.
Messi’s influence on the Argentina squad continues to grow, with teammates and coaches praising his leadership and impact.
Midfielder Alexis Mac Allister said Messi remains the most important player in the squad.
“If anyone thought this group was better off without Leo, today it became clear that Leo is the most important of them all,” Mac Allister said after the win over Algeria.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni also highlighted the strong bond between Messi and his teammates.
“He’s playing with a group of friends, with people that are going to play with their heart for him,” Scaloni said.
The coach added that Messi’s presence brings a special atmosphere to the team that is difficult to describe.
Forward Julian Alvarez echoed those sentiments, saying: “He’s been my idol since I was a kid. Naturally, you want to repay that.”
Rodrigo De Paul, one of Messi’s closest teammates, summed up the feeling within the squad.
“He makes you want to go to war if he asks you to,” De Paul said.
As Argentina look to take another step towards the knockout rounds, all eyes will be on Messi as he attempts to add yet another chapter to his remarkable World Cup story.
