‘Level of his own’: Rangnick admits Messi superiority

Austria head coach Ralf Rangnick admitted his side were simply undone by a masterclass performance of Lionel Messi in Texas on Monday.

Despite a disciplined defensive approach, the European side found themselves unable to suppress a milestone-shattering evening that propelled the defending champions safely into the knockout phase with a game to spare.

"We knew that he is on a level of his own, and Lionel Messi showed us today that he's the best," Rangnick said after the final whistle.

Austria had successfully frustrated the tournament holders early on, notably maintaining defensive composure when an early penalty was dragged wide of the right post to stun the pro-Argentina crowd. The tactical strategy of sitting back initially limited clear opportunities, but the European side’s resistance was ultimately broken late in the first half by a predatory, first-time finish before a second strike deep in injury time put the match completely out of reach.

The clinical performance drew immense praise from fellow Argentina forward Julian Alvarez, who underscored the unmatched longevity of his captain's career.

"There is not much to say about Leo," Alvarez said.

"More than 20 years of being the best in the world, he is the best in history."