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Messi sets World Cup scoring record as defending champion Argentina advances to knockout stage
By Schuyler Dixon, Associated Press at KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC)
· June 22, 2026
· 1 min read
Lionel Messi set a World Cup record with his 17th and 18th goals, and defending champion Argentina advanced to the knockout stage with a 2-0 victory over Austria on Monday.Messi had a golden opportunity to break the record in the ninth minute, but went wide to the right on a penalty kick. Almost ...
Key takeaway Messi had a golden opportunity to break the record in the ninth minute, but went wide to the right on a penalty kick.
Why this matters in Magnolia News
As Argentina advances to the knockout stage, local soccer fans in Magnolia are likely abuzz with excitement, given the large Argentine population in the Houston area. The fact that Messi's record-breaking game was played in a nearby stadium, albeit in Dallas, brings the story even closer to home. With the World Cup capturing the attention of sports enthusiasts across Montgomery County, local businesses may see an uptick in viewership and sales as fans gather to watch upcoming matches. Additionally, the success of Argentina's team may inspire young soccer players in Magnolia's schools and leagues, who look up to Messi as a role model. As the tournament progresses, it will be interesting to see how the community comes together to support their favorite teams and players, and whether local events and watch parties will be organized to capitalize on the excitement.
About this story
Original reporting by KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) . Magnolia News surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page .
For the complete original report, visit KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: June 22, 2026 ·
Source: KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Lionel Messi set a World Cup record with his 17th and 18th goals, and defending champion Argentina advanced to the knockout stage with a 2-0 victory over Austria on Monday.Messi had a golden opportunity to break the record in the ninth minute, but went wide to the right on a penalty kick. Almost ...
When was this published? This article was first published on June 22, 2026 by KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC) and curated for Magnolia News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Schuyler Dixon, Associated Press at KPRC 2 Houston / Click2Houston (NBC). To learn more about how Magnolia News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Magnolia News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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