Argentina 2-0 Austria: Messi Assists Lautaro as Champions Make It Two in a Row
Argentina beat Austria 2-0 at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, securing their second consecutive group win. Lionel Messi set up Lautaro Martínez for the opener, and Ángel Di María sealed the victory. The defending champions are in a strong position in Group J.
On June 22, 2026, AT&T Stadium in Dallas witnessed another victory for defending champions Argentina. A brilliant assist from Lionel Messi to Lautaro Martínez and a goal from Ángel Di María secured a 2-0 win over Austria, giving Argentina their second straight group win.
In the 24th minute, Messi threaded a perfect through ball from midfield, Lautaro Martínez timed his run perfectly, rounded the onrushing goalkeeper, and chipped the ball into the net. It was Messi's second assist of the tournament and Lautaro's second goal.
Austria pushed forward in the second half, with David Alaba and Marcel Sabitzer testing Argentina's defense. However, goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez was in top form, making several crucial saves to keep a clean sheet.
Argentina doubled their lead in the 68th minute. Di María received a pass from De Paul on the right, cut inside, and curled a left-footed shot that hit the underside of the crossbar and went in. The goal extinguished any hopes of an Austrian comeback.
The 2-0 victory puts Argentina top of Group J with 6 points from two matches. Austria remain second with 3 points. In the other group match, Cameroon drew with Indonesia, leaving both on 1 point.
Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni praised his team: 'We are growing in maturity. The connection between Messi and Lautaro is excellent. But we haven't qualified yet; the match against Cameroon will be crucial.'
Austria coach Ralf Rangnick acknowledged the gap: 'Argentina are world champions, and their individual quality decided the game. We had chances but couldn't convert. We must win against Indonesia next.'
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