2 record-breaking goals, 6 consecutive matches scoring: Messi's teammates left amazed after Argentina's 2-0 win

Alexis Mac Allister and Julian Alvarez stood before the media following Argentina's 2-0 victory over Austria, both struggling to articulate the experience of sharing a pitch with Lionel Messi as he shattered the World Cup's all-time scoring record. The Argentine captain's brace elevated his tournament tally to 18 career goals while equaling Just Fontaine's remarkable achievement of scoring in six consecutive World Cup matches, a streak spanning from the 2022 Round of 16 against Australia through the current tournament. Mac Allister, visibly searching for adequate language, described the sensation of witnessing history unfold in real time as something beyond ordinary comprehension, noting that the team's primary responsibility involves providing a platform for their captain's genius to flourish. Alvarez echoed these sentiments, recounting how the squad maintained belief even after Messi's early penalty was saved, understanding that opportunities would eventually materialize. The Brighton midfielder emphasized that Austria's aggressive pressing strategy created difficulties throughout the first half, with the opposition registering 14 tackles and winning 56 percent of their ground duels. Argentina's passing network recorded 421 successful connections at a 79 percent completion rate under pressure, with Messi completing 38 of 44 attempted passes while creating 4 opportunities for teammates. The defending champions absorbed sustained pressure during several stretches, with goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez making 3 vital saves to preserve the clean sheet. The two-goal performance extended Messi's remarkable sequence of contributions across 28 World Cup appearances spanning six editions, during which he has accumulated 18 goals and 9 assists. Alvarez, who provided the rebound opportunity for Messi's second strike, highlighted the collective work rate required to overcome Austria's resistance, noting that the squad covered 119 kilometers collectively with an average sprint speed of 28.4 kilometers per hour. Mac Allister added that the dressing room atmosphere following the final whistle reflected an understanding of the magnitude achieved, yet the focus remains firmly fixed on defending their crown in the knockout rounds that lie ahead.