Captain Lionel Messi scored twice as Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 in their second FIFA World Cup match to secure a place in the knockout stage. The defending champions have now won both of their group matches.

Messi gave Argentina a 1-0 lead in the 38th minute after missing a penalty early in the game in the eighth minute. The 38-year-old then sealed the victory deep into stoppage time, scoring his second goal in the 90+5th minute.

With six points from two matches, Argentina sit on top of Group J and have already booked their place in the last 32. They had opened their campaign with a 3-0 victory over Algeria.

Messi scored all three goals against Algeria, meaning all five of Argentina’s goals in the tournament so far have come from their captain.

The match also saw Messi make history by becoming the all-time leading scorer in FIFA World Cup history with 18 goals.

Despite the defeat, Austria put up a spirited performance against Argentina. They competed strongly throughout the match but lacked creativity in attack, ultimately failing to find the breakthrough.

Austria, who won their opening match, remain on three points. The second-placed side will need a victory over Algeria in their final group game to secure a place in the knockout stage.