Lionel Messi has admitted he is “running on fumes” after producing another record-breaking display to fire Argentina to a 2-0 World Cup victory over Austria.
The 38-year-old delivered a historic performance in Dallas, scoring twice to move clear of Miroslav Klose and become the outright leading scorer in World Cup history with 18 goals.
Yet despite extending his remarkable legacy and helping Argentina take a giant step towards the knockout stages, Messi confessed the demands of another major tournament are beginning to take their toll.
“I’m tired and I’m running on fumes,” Messi said after the match.
“It’s hard to think.
“But I’m enjoying this moment and looking forward to being with my teammates. It’s been spectacular how it has all unfolded.
“I had the penalty, which could have increased my tally. But perhaps the others wouldn’t have come, you never know. I’m happy with the team.”
Messi’s evening had initially threatened to be one of frustration.
Lionel Messi has admitted he is “running on fumes” after producing another record-breaking display to fire Argentina to a 2-0 World Cup victory over Austria
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GETTY
With the scores level in the first half, the Argentina captain stepped up from 12 yards after Lautaro Martinez had been fouled inside the penalty area.
However, the veteran forward dragged his effort wide, spurning the chance to overtake Klose and take sole possession of the World Cup goalscoring record.
It mattered little in the end, however.
Messi recovered to open the scoring in the 38th minute, collecting possession inside the box before dispatching a composed finish beyond the Austrian goalkeeper.
Every team to have won the World Cup | GETTY/GB NEWS
He struck again late on to seal victory and move onto five goals in just two matches in North America, placing himself firmly in contention for the Golden Boot.
The brace means Argentina have already secured their place at the top of Group J with one game remaining.
Julian Alvarez believes Messi is continuing to prove why he remains football’s greatest player.
“He continues to demonstrate, even at his age, that he has the talent and all his magic,” Alvarez said.
“There’s not much to say. We all see it, he’s the best in the world.
“It gives us peace of mind for what’s to come.
“This is the World Cup, everything is very close and very intense. That’s why we’re happy to have earned six points and already secured qualification.”
Manchester United defender Lisandro Martinez was similarly emotional after witnessing Messi move clear of Klose.
Lionel Messi already has five goals at this summer’s World Cup | GETTY
“There are no words, we can only enjoy it,” he said.
“He’s alone at the top. I’m speechless.
“I feel an enormous emotion that he’s Argentinian. We have to value him.”
Argentina conclude their Group J campaign against Jordan on Sunday (3am).
Before that, Jordan take on Algeria at 4am tomorrow morning.
