Messi scored twice and missed a penalty as Argentina beat Austria 2-0 in Group J at AT&T Stadium. He spurned the opener from the spot in the 9th minute, but made amends before half-time when he converted in the 38th minute, assisted by F. Medina. Austria managed just one shot on target from six attempts — an xG of 0.41 against Argentina's 1.58 — and never seriously threatened an equalizer. Messi then put the match beyond doubt in the 90th minute, drilling home a second to complete a dominant if not entirely clinical Argentine performance.

Argentina take three points from their opening Group J fixture and move to the top of the group. Austria remain without a point and face significant pressure heading into their remaining group games. Argentina's result was achieved despite modest attacking volume — eight shots, two on target — with the scoreline a fair reflection of the balance of play. F. Medina, who provided the assist for the first goal, was substituted off in the 82nd minute after picking up a yellow card in the 76th.