Messi reveals pre-game chat with Medina led to Argentina's first goal vs. Austria

Lionel Messi shared insights into the build-up of Argentina's opening goal in their 2-0 win against Austria, a victory that propelled the team into the next round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. The captain detailed a pre-match exchange with defender Facundo Medina regarding a specific type of play.

"I always told Negro 'throw it back, you idiot, I'll always get there,' and he left it spectacular," Messi recounted about his conversation with Medina. He emphasized Medina's crucial role in the assist, noting how teammates Thiago Almada, Enzo Fernández, and Lautaro Martínez created space by drawing defenders.

The goal, scored in the 38th minute, was reminiscent of Messi's past collaborations with Jordi Alba during his time at Barcelona, though Messi stressed that this particular goal was solely Medina's achievement. This goal marked Messi's 18th in World Cup competitions, surpassing the previous record held by German legend Miroslav Klose.

With this win, Argentina secured six points from their first two group matches, guaranteeing their advancement. Later, Algeria's 2-1 victory over Jordan mathematically confirmed Argentina's first-place finish in Group J, regardless of the outcome in their final group stage match.

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I always told Negro ‘tirala atrás, boludo, que yo siempre llego’ y la dejó espectacular