Argentina's Lionel Messi celebrates scoring his side’s third goal to complete a hat-trick against Algeria. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Argentina is set to take on Austria in a Group J encounter in the FIFA World Cup 2026 at the Dallas Stadium on Monday.

Talismanic skipper Lionel Messi will line-up in what will be his 201st appearance in national colours as Argentina aims to seal a knockout spot with a win.

Messi starred in the opening game 3-0 win over Algeria, where he scored his first World Cup hat-trick.

What records can Messi break in Argentina vs Austria match today?

The 38-year-old is on the cusp of two remarkable records. If Messi manages another goal, he will break Germany’s Miroslav Klose for most goals in World Cup history. Both are currently tied with 16 goals.

Messi can also bag the outright record for most assists in World Cups if he manages to set up a goal for his teammate. He is tied with his legendary countryman Diego Maradona at eight.

Argentina will round up its group stage fixtures with a meeting against Jordan on June 27.

Published on Jun 22, 2026