ARLINGTON, Texas — Lionel Messi delivered a performance for the ages on Monday, scoring twice to lead Argentina to a 2-0 victory over Austria and, in the process, cementing his status as the greatest goalscorer in men's World Cup history . The historic brace at Dallas Stadium not only secured Argentina's place in the Round of 32 but also saw the 38-year-old superstar surpass a record that had stood for over a decade.

With his two goals against a resilient Austrian side, Messi now has 18 career World Cup goals, moving past German legend Miroslav Klose, who had held the record of 16 since 2014 . The achievement comes just two days before Messi's 39th birthday, adding another remarkable chapter to his legendary career .

The match did not start smoothly for the Argentine captain. In the ninth minute, Argentina was awarded a penalty after Lautaro Martinez was brought down in the box. Messi stepped up to take the spot-kick but sent his shot wide of the right post, marking the third consecutive World Cup in which he has missed a penalty .

However, the miss only seemed to delay the inevitable. In the 38th minute, Facundo Medina delivered a low cross into the box. Thiago Almada cleverly let the ball run past him, allowing Messi to stride onto it and fire a precise left-footed finish into the bottom corner . The stadium erupted as the record was broken.

Messi added a second goal deep into stoppage time, capitalizing on a rebound in the box to seal the victory for the defending champions . His brace brings his total for the tournament to five goals, making him an early frontrunner for the Golden Boot . The victory extends Argentina's perfect start to the tournament, following their 3-0 win over Algeria, and guarantees they will be in the knockout rounds .

The record-setting goal was a moment of collective brilliance, emblematic of the team spirit that has defined Argentina's recent success . "Beyond anything I'm so happy for the win," Messi said after the match. "It was huge, tough and difficult. It would allow us to be relaxed to what's ahead" . He also acknowledged the intensity of the competition, adding, "All matches in this World Cup are very even, very intense. I'm enjoying this moment and craving to enjoy with my teammates" .

Messi's achievement is even more poignant given personal challenges he has faced during the tournament. After Argentina's opener, a visibly emotional Messi revealed his tears were due to off-field difficulties . It was later reported that his father, Jorge Messi, 68, is undergoing treatment for an undisclosed illness, with the family confirming he is recovering favorably .

Despite these distractions, Messi has been in scintillating form. He had tied Klose's record with a hat-trick in Argentina's opening match against Algeria . With his two goals against Austria, he has now scored in six consecutive World Cup matches, joining Just Fontaine and Jairzinho as the only players to achieve that feat .

The Argentine team showed its class and tactical discipline against a tough Austrian side. They controlled possession and created numerous chances, while Austria struggled to break down the South American defense . Austria's best chance came from a Marcel Sabitzer free-kick, but Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez was equal to the task .

As the tournament progresses, the focus will remain on whether Messi can lead Argentina to a second consecutive World Cup title. With the all-time scoring record now in his possession, the world will be watching to see what other magic the veteran can produce in what could be his final World Cup appearance .