Lionel Messi continued his stellar form at the World Cup, scoring twice to lead Argentina to a hard-fought victory over Australia. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner broke Miroslav Klose's record to become the highest goalscorer in World Cup history, but remained focused on the team's result.
'The truth is, I am very happy for the win above all,' the 38-year-old captain said. 'It was a very important, very tough, and hard-fought victory. It gives us peace of mind for what is to come.'
Messi also reflected on the record, joking that missing an early penalty might have changed the course of the game. However, he was ultimately more satisfied with the team's performance and the result than the individual milestone.
'The truth is that it is spectacular how it happened,' Messi admitted. 'Today I had the penalty that I could have increased the score with, but if I had made the penalty, perhaps I wouldn't have reached the other two either.'
Argentina's victory secured two wins from two matches, achieving one of their primary objectives. Messi praised his team's control of the game and reiterated that they would approach the knockout stages with confidence.
