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Lionel Messi became the leading scorer in World Cup history as the captain struck twice to give Argentina a 2-0 win over Austria on Monday and send the champions into the last 32. The player widely regarded as the greatest of all time pounced late in the first half in Texas with a trademark left-footed finish after neat build-up play. The predatory goal added to his hat-trick in Argentina's opening match to make it a record 17 in total at the World Cup. The 38-year-old then sealed the match deep in second-half injury time as he outfoxed four defenders who lined up to keep the ball out. It should have been even better for Messi, who missed a penalty early on, stunning a fiercely pro-Argentina 70,649 crowd at the air-conditioned home of the Dallas Cowboys. "Very happy for the victory, it was very important, hard, hard, hard, and it gives us peace of mind for what is to come," Messi, at his sixth World Cup, told broadcasters. "The match was even, intense and we are happy to get six points." Messi's name rang out along the concourses of the stadium after another virtuoso display. "There is not much to say about Leo. More than 20 years being the best in the world, he is the best in history," said striker Julian Alvarez. **media[460292]** With both sides knowing a win would put them into the knockout rounds with a game to spare, Lautaro Martinez was brought down in the box, sandwiched by two Austrian players. Referee Amin Mohamed gave a penalty after a VAR intervention, and a wall of noise went up as Messi stepped forward on nine minutes. But his run-up was slow and his weak effort off target, dragging it wide. For all his brilliance, Messi -- who turns 39 on Wednesday -- is surprisingly poor from the penalty spot by his standards. He also saw his spot-kick saved by Wojciech Szczesny in a 2-0 win over Poland at the 2022 World Cup, where Argentina went on to be champions, and missed at the 2018 tournament. In the 19th minute Messi had a clear sniff at goal, only for Austria captain David Alaba to steal the ball off his toes at the last moment as he danced through. Alaba denied Messi again just after the half-hour mark, blocking his goalbound shot with goalkeeper Alexander Schlager stranded. Ralf Rangnick's Austria, who beat debutants Jordan 3-1 in their opener, were content to sit back. They did not have a shot on target in the first half. And then came the big moment, Messi sweeping in on 38 minutes after being set up by Facundo Medina, with Thiago Almada cleverly letting the ball run through his legs to leave Argentina's talisman all on his own and the goal gaping. The Argentina fans, who greatly outnumbered their Austrian counterparts, rose to acclaim their hero. Messi had equalled Miroslav Klose's all-time mark of 16 World Cup goals when hitting a hat-trick in a 3-0 win over Algeria in the holders' opening game. Messi was tearful after his first goal against Algeria, and it later emerged that his father is recovering from an unspecified health issue. Inter Miami attacker Messi had not even committed to playing the tournament in North America until the last moment. The former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain wizard dragged his country to World Cup glory four years ago, and the lure of representing his nation once again on the biggest stage proved irresistible. Lionel Scaloni's side failed to build on their lead, and the second half drifted, neither side creating much. If anything, Austria threatened slightly more, but Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez was only once seriously troubled. And then up popped Messi to have the last word at the death. "We knew that he is on a level of his own, and Lionel Messi showed us today that he's the best," said Rangnick. World Cup all-time top scorers18 – Lionel Messi16 – Miroslav Klose15 – Ronaldo14 – Gerd Muller, Kylian Mbappé13 – Just Fontaine12 – Pele11 – Sandor Kocsis, Jurgen Klinsmann10 – Helmut Rahn, Gabriel Batistuta, Gary Lineker, Téofilo Cubillas, Thomas Müller, Grzegorz Lato, Harry KaneMessi's Key statsMessi drew level with Miroslav Klose on 16 goals in style, scoring a hat-trick for Argentina against Algeria in their opening game of the 2026 World Cup, and he moved clear of him as the outright leader with two goals in Argentina’s second match of the group stage, against Austria. Against Algeria, Messi became the first player in World Cup history to score in six different tournaments. And his treble made him the oldest scorer of a World Cup hat-trick in history (38 years, 356 days old), beating Cristiano Ronaldo’s record. And with his brace against Austria, he became just the third player in World Cup history to score in six consecutive games, after France’s Just Fontaine in 1958 and Brazil’s Jairzinho in 1970. In 2022, the Argentinian had become the first player in World Cup history to score in the group stage, round of 16, quarter-final, semi-final and final in a single edition of the tournament. The records just keep on stacking up.  

Members of a news crew in Argentina are out of a job after falsely reporting the death of the father of World Cup superstar Lionel Messi.Florencia Pena announced on Luzu TV that Jorge Messi had died and went on to suggest ‌that Messi would not play any further matches in the ongoing World ​Cup in North America.In the aftermath ‌of the report, the Messi family on Thursday issued a statement announcing ‌that the patriarch was ⁠in the hospital ‌with an undisclosed medical issue but was "progressing favorably."Following ‌the report, Pena resigned her position and issued an apology to the family, blaming the ⁠production crew for feeding incorrect information to her via her earpiece during a live broadcast."I apologize to the Messi family for the awful moment I imagine they are going through," Pena later wrote on social media, translated from Spanish. "I am deeply ashamed to have been the vehicle for this pain. I must clarify that this false information was provided to me during the live broadcast as verified by the production team of the show, ​and I trusted it. Even so, I take responsibility for being part of the mistake, and that's why I decided to step aside and end my participation in Luzu. I apologize again from ‌the heart; I was wrong."Started in 2020, ⁠Luzu is a ​popular source of news in Argentina.It also issued a statement of apology ​and added that "those responsible" had been relieved of their duties."We deeply regret the incident that occurred on air during the program," Luzu said in a statement, also translated from Spanish. "For our channel, broadcasting sensitive information without proper prior verification is unacceptable."Consequently, Luzu TV management has decided to part ways with all those responsible, and Florencia Pena has decided to step aside. We reaffirm our commitment to responsible, respectful, and rigorous communication."According to media reports in Argentina, as many as 10 brands immediately ended their sponsorship of Luzu, a streaming channel. MESSI FAMILY IRKEDThe Messi family statement took issue with the reporting."In light of the ‌versions, rumors and speculation that have ‌circulated in recent hours, the family wishes ⁠to express their profound discomfort at the lack of sensitivity, respect and scruples with which ⁠some individuals have treated a strictly private ⁠and family matter," the statement read, in part."The family also wishes to clarify that only their closest family members have real and accurate information about Jorge's condition. Therefore, any version, statement or information that does not come from the family itself and their corresponding channels should not be considered valid or truthful."In moments like this, we ask for responsibility, prudence and humanity. A person's ​health and the peace of mind of those around them should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest."Lionel Messi is one of Argentina's greatest heroes and is participating in his record sixth World Cup.His list of championships is extensive, including the 2022 World Cup; Olympic gold medal in 2008; two Copa Americas; four Champions Leagues; 10 La Liga; two Ligue 1; and the 2025 MLS Cup with Inter Miami. He has won the Ballon d'Or eight times, awarded to the world's best player.Messi scored a hat trick in ‌defending champion Argentina's World ​Cup opener, a 3-0 win over Algeria on Tuesday in Kansas City. Argentina will continue Group J action against Austria on Monday in Arlington, Texas. 

With a dazzling hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 World Cup win over Algeria on Tuesday, the 38-year-old Lionel Messi vindicated coach Lionel Scaloni's assertion on ‌the eve of the match that he remains fundamental to ​the reigning champions.Exactly 20 ‌years after netting his first World Cup goal, the ‌eight-time Ballon ⁠d'Or winner again ‌shaped the narrative, moving level ‌with Miroslav Klose's 16 goals for a share of the all-time men's ⁠scoring record at the tournament.On a night that also marked a record sixth World Cup appearance and his 200th international match, Messi drew roars from the crowd from early on, robbing Algeria of possession high up the pitch in the second minute.Beyond the hat-trick that would follow, that defensive effort and intensity offered a ​snapshot of what the forward could still offer his side at the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada."It's an advantage to have Leo, because ‌of how he manages the ⁠group and drives ​it forward," said midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, who set ​up Messi's first goal in the 17th minute. "He doesn't pay attention to individual records. He prioritises the team, and for us that's incredible."Messi's performance also offered a reminder of his resilience, as he arrived at the tournament after recovering from a muscle strain, having been eased back into action earlier this month. Any concerns over his fitness were put to rest. Messi magic 'hard to explain', says Argentina bossScaloni's Monday statement that Inter Miami's Messi was now "even more" important to Argentina was emphatically ‌validated with the veteran ‌imposing his rhythm on the ⁠match despite being well beyond his prime European years."About Leo, it's quite hard to explain," Scaloni said at his post-match press conference. "We are amazed with him still, although we get to see him on a daily basis and he's been the best for 20 years, he still pulls it off every single match. You don't have to be an Argentina fan to admire what he's done at age 38."Scaloni, who masterminded Argentina's third World Cup triumph in Qatar in 2022, said Messi did not behave like a superstar in the team camp. "He's playing with a group of friends, with people that are going to play with their heart for him," said the Argentina boss."Whenever they need to have a conversation with him they can just approach him and it's really hard to explain whatever he conveys and I could stay here with you for over an hour trying to explain exactly what he does, but you need to be there to really understand. You need to understand the atmosphere, the ambience."The fact that this is likely to be Messi's final World Cup added extra significance for supporters. Thousands of Argentine fans at the Kansas City ​stadium repeatedly bowed in Messi's direction, including when he was substituted for Nico Paz in the 80th minute, while others had gathered the day before in Mill Creek Park wearing shirts emblazoned with his nameIn a venue where Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes has so often commanded the spotlight, it was time for some Messi magic.Mahomes was present in the crowd on Tuesday, with the NFL star sharing a goat ‌emoji and video ​of the Argentine on social media, sports shorthand for "the greatest of all time." 

Lionel Messi has taken a step forward in his injury recovery and could play a few minutes in Argentina's upcoming friendlies before their World Cup opener, coach Lionel Scaloni said."Leo is doing well, he has already trained partly with the group, he's no longer completely separated," Scaloni said. "It's possible he'll play a few minutes in the friendlies. We'll see whether that's tomorrow's game or the other one."Defending World Cup champions Argentina will take on Honduras in College Station, Texas, on Saturday and play Iceland on Tuesday in Auburn, Alabama."He's much better and that gives us peace of mind," Scaloni said.The medical staff of the Argentine national team has plenty of work, starting with their star Messi, who suffered a strain in his left hamstring in Inter Miami's last match and was not expected to play against Honduras.Scaloni also confirmed that goalkeeper Juan Musso, of Atletico Madrid, will start the game against Honduras at Kyle Field, given that his first-choice keeper, Emiliano Martinez, suffered a fracture in the ring finger of his right hand during the warm-up for the Europa League final.Team medical staff has decided to hold him out of both friendlies, although Martinez should be available for the opener against Algeria.Scaloni will also give minutes to debutant Santiago Beltran, the young River Plate goalkeeper called up for the friendlies.In defense, right backs Nahuel Molina and Gonzalo Montiel are recovering from muscle tears, and the coaching staff has called up Agustin Giay and Nicolas Capaldo to replace them in the friendlies.Center-back Cristian Romero is already training with the group after the knee sprain he suffered in April, although he comes in without match fitness.Scaloni will have to decide whether to give him minutes or wait a few more days. Another case drawing scrutiny is that of Nicolas Paz, who is training separately after taking a heavy hit to his knee. RULED OUT OF HONDURAS GAMEHe has been ruled out for the Honduras game and will be cutting it close for the World Cup debut. Leandro Paredes and Julian Alvarez also arrived at Argentina's camp in Kansas with physical issues. Although they are improving, it is uncertain whether they will get any playing time in the warm-up matches."The situation is improving," Scaloni said. "They're fine, and we don't want to risk them in these games, and the idea is surely that (the injured players) won't take part in these friendlies."In this one (against Honduras), definitely not," he added. "In the second, there might be a chance that one of them could play."Scaloni said the coming week will show "exactly where we stand.""For now everything is going quite well, and next week we'll see," he said.Argentina are set to begin their World Cup campaign on June 16 against Algeria in Kansas City.  

 Lionel Messi will captain Argentina at the World Cup, national coach Lionel Scaloni announced on Thursday as he unveiled his 26-man squad. Messi, 38, had not previously confirmed he would play in what will be a record-breaking sixth tournament for the Argentine superstar. But it had been widely assumed the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner would again lead Argentina, four years after lifting the trophy in Qatar. As well as confirming Messi’s presence, Thursday’s announcement notably excluded Real Madrid’s Franco Mastantuono from the Argentina squad. Eighteen-year-old Mastantuono is considered one of the brightest prospects in Argentine football. The largest ever World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, kicks off June 11. Argentina’s first match will be five days later against Algeria in Kansas City. Messi has been at the heart of an injury scare in recent days, with his club side Inter Miami this week saying medical tests diagnosed him with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring. The Major League Soccer club had provided no clear timetable for Messi’s return after his abrupt exit from Miami’s 6-4 victory over Philadelphia in the 73rd minute on Sunday. But Scaloni had played down the seriousness of the injury this week. Center-back Cristian Romero, who suffered a knee injury last month and has not played since, was also named in the squad. The Tottenham Hotspur captain was ruled out for the remainder of the Premier League season after he was shoved into his own goalkeeper by Sunderland striker Brian Brobbey. Argentina’s roster retains 17 of the 26 players who won the title in Qatar. Young players who received call-ups include 21-year-olds Nicolas Paz and Valentin Barco. Palmeiras forward Jose Manuel Lopez, who only made his international debut last year, also features. Other notable absentees include Emiliano Buendia – currently in excellent form at Aston Villa – and Roma star Paulo Dybala. The South American giants will journey to the United States for pre-World Cup friendlies against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9. Argentina’s World Cup group also contains Austria and Jordan. Along with Messi, Portuguese forward Cristiano Ronaldo and Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa are also expected to appear in their sixth World Cups this summer. Squad Goalkeepers: Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa, ENG), Geronimo Rulli (Marseille, FRA), Juan Musso (Atletico Madrid, ESP)Defenders: Gonzalo Montiel (River Plate, ARG), Nahuel Molina (Atletico Madrid, ESP), Lisandro Martinez (Manchester United, ENG), Nicolas Otamendi (Benfica, POR), Leonardo Balerdi (Olympique Marseille, FRA), Cristian Romero (Tottenham Hotspur, ENG), Facundo Medina (Marseille, FRA), Nicolas Tagliafico (Lyon, FRA).Midfielders: Leandro Paredes (Boca Juniors, ARG), Rodrigo de Paul (Inter Miami, USA), Exequiel Palacios (Bayer Leverkusen, GER), Enzo Fernandez (Chelsea, ENG), Alexis MacAllister (Liverpool, ENG), Giovani Lo Celso (Real Betis, ESP), Valentin Barco (Strasbourg).Attackers: Lionel Messi (Inter Miami, USA), Nicolas Paz (Como, ITA), Thiago Almada (Atletico Madrid, ESP), Nicolas Gonzalez (Atletico Madrid, ESP), Julian Alvarez (Atletico Madrid, ESP), Giuliano Simeone (Atletico Madrid, ESP), Lautaro Martinez (Inter Milan, ITA), Jose Manuel Lopez (Palmeiras, BRA). 

Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni said the initial news regarding superstar Lionel Messi’s fitness “is not that bad” and hopes further examinations will confirm that diagnosis with the World Cup just a fortnight away. Messi has been diagnosed with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring by his Major League Soccer club Inter Miami after he made an abrupt exit from Miami’s 6-4 victory over Philadelphia in the 73rd minute on Sunday. Even at 38 and eying a sixth World Cup finals appearance, Messi remains the side’s talisman for the defence of the title they won in Qatar four years ago. “Obviously we would have preferred that nothing had happened,” Scaloni said on Tuesday. “Now one has to wait and see how it evolves and above all the new tests they are going to conduct in order to see if it confirms their original diagnosis.” Scaloni, who is due to name his squad next week, added he had watched the match on TV at the federation’s headquarters and been relieved that Messi had asked to come off. Inter manager Guillermo Hoyos explained after the match Messi was tired, the pitch was heavy and no-one wanted to take a risk with his fitness. Inter Miami issued a statement on Monday saying: “The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress.” That gave little indication about the status of the eight-time Ballon D’Or winner. Argentina are set to begin their World Cup campaign on June 16 against Algeria in Kansas City. They then play Austria on June 22 and round off their Group J campaign against Jordan on June 28. Messi has managed his workload since joining Inter Miami in 2023, with team staff regularly excusing him from matches in congested fixture periods. MLS has started a break in its season for the World Cup, which is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. Messi has not formally confirmed he plans to play in the World Cup, but is widely expected to return for what would be a record-matching sixth appearance at the finals. His great Portuguese rival Cristiano Ronaldo and potentially Mexican goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa would also be making a sixth appearance. Argentina are set to play two pre-World Cup friendlies against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9, both in the United States.

An event on cultural exchange and creativity was held at La Moneda Cultural Center (CCLM) in Santiago, Chile, with the participation of more than 120 first-grade students, as part of the Qatar-Argentina-Chile 2025 Year of Culture.This event is jointly organized by the Years of Culture initiative, Qatar National Library (QNL), CCLM, and Trama Cultura Foundation.The event gave students a glimpse into different aspects of Qatari culture through an interactive combination of storytelling, art, and cultural exploration.The book of fables, 'Kalila wa Dimna' played a pivotal role in this event, as it contains a collection of famous tales dating back over a thousand years, recently translated into Spanish, and has been integrated into educational activities in several countries participating in the Years of Culture partnership.The event revived the tales of 'Kalila wa Dimna' through an entertaining performance by a Chilean band, which encouraged children to contemplate the universal human messages that these stories carry.Following the storytelling session, the students participated in an art workshop where they collaborated to paint a mural inspired by the sea that connects the two countries. Through this, the children learned about the concepts of communication and cultural exchange, emphasizing the ability of storytelling to transcend borders between places, languages, and cultures.In this context, QNL's Qatar Reads initiative presented a special art exhibition of Kalila wa Dimna at the Ricardo Guiraldes Library in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The exhibition included twelve original works by the Qatari artist and writer Wadha Al Athba.Commenting on this collaboration, Manager of Qatar Reads initiative Fatema Al Malki highlighted the importance for children to learn that, regardless of how different they may seem, cultures can share the same values, symbols and interests. Throughout the centuries, tales have conveyed lessons about empathy, cooperation and the meaning of humanity, she added.She noted that the inclusion of an influential book like 'Kalila wa Dimna' serves as a reminder that these lessons can resonate in Qatar and around the globe.The style of artworks was inspired by Islamic miniatures, embodying the spirit of humor, wisdom, and cultural depth in the original tales.These artworks appeared in the Spanish version of Kalila wa Dimna, written and illustrated by the artist Wadha Al Athba, and published by Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press.This initiative aims to promote respect between diverse cultures, encourage people to unite, strengthen ties, and promote dialogue. 

Around 20 people were injured in a massive explosion at a chemical plant on the outskirts of the Argentine capital, Buenos Aires. Local officials reported that rescue teams have begun operations to control the fire and secure the area. For its part, the Argentine Federal Emergency Agency confirmed that it is taking all necessary measures to provide assistance to the injured, whose number has reached about 20 people. Drone footage showed huge flames rising from the crash site.

Qatar National Bank (QNB) expects Argentina's economy to face multiple challenges in the coming period, despite projected growth rates of 3.5 percent in both 2026 and 2027.In its Weekly Economic Commentary, QNB said, "Argentine President Javier Milei recently made global headlines with an unexpected and decisive mid-term electoral victory, consolidating the country's most disruptive political movement in decades. Coming onto the national stage just a few years ago as a libertarian outsider, famously wielding a chainsaw to symbolize his intent to slash public spending, his campaigns have centered on austerity, deregulation, and a rollback of state intervention in the economy. This marks a significant shift in a nation long dominated by interventionist and left-leaning Peronism. Combined with allies from the "Pro" party, his coalition may be able to gather sufficient additional support for deeper market-oriented reforms."Since taking office in December 2023, Milei gradually began to reverse the economic trends inherited from his predecessor, with the country on the edge of hyperinflation, as prices rocketed by nearly 300 percent a year. By end-2025, inflation has fallen to around 30 percent, still painfully high but a significant turnaround by stabilization standards. Furthermore, his government delivered the country's first budget surplus in more than a decade, a symbol of restored fiscal discipline that few thought possible without major political resistance.""The fiscal adjustment has not been painless. After a sharp initial rebound from two years of recession in 2024, growth has stalled. Stagnant economic performance raised doubts about voter support before the recent mid-term elections. The political strain deepened when the Peronists secured victory in Buenos Aires in local elections in September this year, unsettling markets, with the currency depreciating and spreads on sovereign bonds rising sharply. Amid the turmoil, Milei turned to his ally US President Donald Trump, and a USD 20 Bn currency-swap package helped stabilize the peso and calm capital outflows.""Going forward, Javier Milei faces the decisive test of his presidency of turning early stabilization into durable growth. The recent elections have strengthened his position, giving his coalition enough presence in Congress to pursue long-delayed structural reforms and privatizations. Whether Argentina can pivot from emergency adjustment to a phase of sustained economic growth remains an open question. In this article, we discuss what in our view will be the main challenges for President Milei's administration going forward."The bank explained, "First, although the administration is placing reforms at the top of its agenda, it stands to face significant resistance from vested interests. At the top of the list are two major overhauls: a reform aiming at making labour markets more dynamic, and a broad tax reform to improve an overly complex revenue system. With stricter employment-protection legislation than regional peers, including high costs of hiring and onerous dismissal rules, a chronically large shadow economy of close to 50 percent of total employment has become engrained, dragging productivity. The tax system features 155 levies, with just 10 of them accounting for 94 percent of revenues, reflecting an inefficient and burdensome obstacle for companies. As a result, the economy has stalled in the last 15 years, with real GDP growing at an average of less than 1 percent per year. Reform proposals are certain to face resistance from the Peronist opposition and labour unions, but their approval would represent a decisive step to break a stagnant economic growth trend.""Second, Milei will need to regain confidence to attract investments consistent with strong growth and modernization of the country. Over the last 20 years, aggregate investment has amounted to an average of close to 17.5 percent of GDP, which is far below the 25-30 percent associated with robust performance of high-growth emerging economies. To reach this target, the country would have to close a gap of more than USD 60 Bn per year in investments relative to recent levels. The government developed its flagship investment framework, known as "RIGI" (acronym in Spanish for Regime of Incentives for Large Investments), offering long-term tax, customs and foreign exchange incentives for up to 30 years, applying to large-scale projects of more than USD 200 Mn. Until recently, committed investments through this initiative have reached only a fraction of the investment gap, mainly in infrastructure, mining and oil and gas, reflecting the need for a more stable environment to attract larger investments.""Third, the administration faces the test of securing macroeconomic stability and bringing inflation fully under control. Although the aggressive "chainsaw" phase may have passed, maintaining fiscal discipline and resisting political pressure for spending will be crucial to sustain recent gains, regain monetary stability and prevent a relapse into chronic deficits. The peso has depreciated over 50 percent so far this year, reflecting feeble confidence in the currency. Argentina's sovereign bonds continue to trade at spreads of over 6 percentage points above US Treasuries, underscoring the extraordinary risk premium demanded by investors. Restoring macroeconomic stability will require consistent policies to rebuild credibility."QNB concluded, "All in all, President Milei faces significant challenges. Growth is expected to reach around 3.5 percent in 2026 and 2027 which, although an improvement relative to recent years, it is not yet an exceptional performance for an emerging economy. More importantly, President Javier Milei faces the challenge of laying the foundations for long-term growth."

Wallabies skipper Harry Wilson said Friday the hot and humid weather will play a big part in their crunch clash against Argentina, with a battle of the fittest on the cards.The Rugby Championship showdown today is being played in tropical Townsville, and in the afternoon, making for a challenging environment.“You’re going to see a lot of boys from both teams who are going to be struggling at points in the game,” said Wilson, who is back in the saddle after a knee injury kept him out of their last Test.“But that’s why we do our pre-seasons, that’s why we work so hard on the training paddock, to be ready for it. “That’s the beauty of taking footy up here. You get different, unique challenges, and it’s probably different to playing in Sydney. We’re ready for that challenge, and we can’t wait for it.”With all four teams in the Rugby Championship so far winning one and losing one, the game is a must-win for Australia and the Pumas ahead of a return leg in Sydney a week later.Both are in good touch with the Wallabies stunning world champions South Africa in Johannesburg last month, before a narrow defeat in Cape Town.Argentina lost their round one clash against New Zealand but bounced back emphatically to topple the All Blacks for the first time on home soil.Under coach Joe Schmidt, Australia have come a long way from being crushed 67-27 by Argentina in Santa Fe last year and Pumas skipper Julian Montoya is expecting a tough encounter.“That game (in Santa Fe) was a year ago, even more,” he told reporters. “And you see the path they’re on now - an amazing series against the (British and Irish) Lions, beat the Springboks at Ellis Park and almost beat them again in the last game.“It’s a world-class team and we’re expecting the best of them, a proper Test match.”Both sides have made three changes, with Argentina bringing in prop Joel Sclavi, flanker Marcos Kremer and fly-half Santiago Carreras.Australia welcome back Wilson, while Andrew Kellaway takes over from injured wing Tom Wright and Tom Lynagh is preferred as playmaker over veteran James O’Connor.

Lionel Messi scored twice for Argentina in emotional scenes in Buenos Aires on Thursday while Uruguay, Colombia and Paraguay joined the reigning champions at next year's World Cup.In his last home qualifier for his country and with Argentina having already booked their place in North America, Messi struck in the 39th and 80th minutes to bag a 3-0 win over Venezuela. Messi, who has won the Ballon d'Or eight times, sparkled in front of an adoring crowd of 80,000 at the Mas Monumental stadium to underline his enduring quality.The Argentine legend will turn 39 during next year's World Cup, but despite his advanced years he looks set to play another pivotal role as Lionel Scaloni's side defend their crown. Scaloni will rest his skipper for next week's dead-rubber at Ecuador. "He made an enormous effort and deserves a rest and to be with his family," said the coach. "He ended up very tired and physically exhausted. He should have come off, but he didn't because of the emotional nature of the match."Messi had his three sons with him before kickoff and his father, Jorge, was also in attendance to mark the occasion.Uruguay sealed their berth in the United States, Canada and Mexico by beating Peru 3-0 at home while Colombia saw off Bolivia by the same scoreline. Paraguay also reached the 2026 finals after a 0-0 home draw against already qualified Ecuador. Brazil, who had also already qualified, swept Chile aside 3-0 at the Maracana with the English Premier League trio of Estevao, Lucas Paqueta and Bruno Guimaraes getting the goals.It was the 18-year-old Chelsea winger Estevao's first goal for his country. In front of 60,000 at a packed-out Estadio Centenario in Montevideo, Rodrigo Aguirre put Marcelo Bielsa's Uruguay on their way on 14 minutes. The Club America forward leapt highest to place a thumping header into the top corner past Peru goalkeeper Pedro Gallese.The Uruguayans, winners of the World Cup in 1930 and 1950, had needed just a point to qualify and send their charismatic veteran coach Bielsa to the tournament once again.The 70-year-old has now taken a third team to World Cup qualification. Bielsa's appointment as Uruguay coach in 2023 was greeted with excitement, even euphoria, but an underwhelming qualification campaign has dampened that enthusiasm.Qualification was always likely in a system that sees six of the 10 CONMEBOL sides qualify automatically for 2026, with one more heading into an inter-continental play-off. Venezuela currently hold seventh place with one more qualifier to go.Giorgian de Arrascaeta doubled Uruguay's lead just before the hour, lashing home from close range to ensure a party atmosphere in the Uruguayan capital. Federico Vinas scored a third 10 minutes from time.Colombia also sealed their place in next summer's extravaganza thanks to a comfortable victory over Bolivia. The 34-year-old former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich attacker James Rodriguez, the breakout star of the 2014 World Cup, pounced just after the half-hour mark. Jhon Cordoba made sure there were no late scares with his goal in the 74th minute, before Juan Fernando Quintero made it three.Like Uruguay, Paraguay needed only a draw to qualify when they hosted Ecuador. They got the job done as they ground out a goalless stalemate and will be at their ninth World Cup but first since 2010.