Lionel Messi assured this Monday that he feels “happy” and also “tired” after Argentina’s 2-0 victory over Austria, a match in which the Albiceleste captain made history by scoring 18 goalsthe top scorer of the World Cups.
“I am very happy for the victory. It was a very important victory, a hard and hard-worked match that gives us peace of mind for what is to come. This is a World Cup and everything is very intense and even, but we are happy to add six points and get closer to qualifying,” he said in statements to television.
Messi, true to his style, downplayed his personal achievement, although his five goals also place him as the leader in the 2026 World Cup scoring table.
“I didn’t imagine starting like this. I’m tired, but I hope to be able to celebrate this with my teammates. You never know what can happen, but I’m happy for the result and for everyone’s effort,” he added.
When asked about favorites for the title, he avoided entering into the debate: “I don’t have favorites. Now I’m tired from today’s effort and it’s hard for me to think about it.”
The Argentine captain acknowledged that, although the team had in mind to add wins against Algeria and Austria, the development of the match was more complicated than expected. “At times it was difficult for us to have the long possession that we were looking for. They didn’t hurt us either, but it was a very tight game, in which we had to play quickly,” he explained.
Messi also referred to the missed penalty at the start of the match. ““I was angry about the penalty I missed, I kicked it very badly, but luckily we were able to reverse it, get the advantage and keep the three points, which is the most important thing,” he commented.
Finally, he highlighted the atmosphere within the group and the connection with the fans. “When this group gets together, whether in official competitions or friendlies, they enjoy everyday life. Also seeing people like this, being able to give them joy, and we are going to continue trying,” he stated.
“This is step by step, it is a long and difficult path,” Messi concluded about the challenge of the World Cup.