Messi's first reaction after becoming the World Cup's top scorer

Lionel Messi described himself as both "happy" and "tired" following Argentina's hard-fought 2-0 victory over Austria in the 2026 World Cup. The win secured Argentina's second consecutive victory and cemented their place in the next round, with Messi himself making history by becoming the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history with 18 goals.

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I am very happy for the triumph. It was a very important victory, a tough and well-worked match that gives us tranquility for what's to come.

"I am very happy for the triumph. It was a very important victory, a tough and well-worked match that gives us tranquility for what's to come," Messi told television reporters. He acknowledged the intensity of the World Cup, noting that "everything is very intense and even, but we are happy to add six points and get closer to qualification."

While his five goals in the tournament also place him at the top of the 2026 World Cup scoring charts, Messi remained characteristically humble. "I didn't imagine starting like this. I am tired, but I hope to be able to celebrate this with my teammates. You never know what can happen, but I am happy for the result and for everyone's effort," he added.

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This is a World Cup and everything is very intense and even, but we are happy to add six points and get closer to qualification.

Messi admitted the match against Austria was more challenging than anticipated. "At times we struggled to maintain the long possession we were looking for. They didn't hurt us either, but it was a very tight game where we had to play quickly," he explained. He also expressed frustration over a missed penalty early in the game, stating, "I was angry about the penalty I missed, I kicked it very badly, but luckily we were able to turn it around, get the lead, and take the three points, which is the most important thing."

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I didn't imagine starting like this. I am tired, but I hope to be able to celebrate this with my teammates. You never know what can happen, but I am happy for the result and for everyone's effort.

Looking ahead, Messi avoided naming favorites for the title, stating, "I have no favorites. Now I am tired from today's effort and it's hard for me to think about that." He concluded by highlighting the team's camaraderie and connection with their supporters, emphasizing their shared enjoyment and commitment to bringing joy to the fans. "This is step by step, it's a long and difficult road," Messi said about the World Cup challenge.

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At times we struggled to maintain the long possession we were looking for. They didn't hurt us either, but it was a very tight game where we had to play quickly.