Image Credits: Imago Images
Argentina and Alexis Mac Allister took another confident step in their World Cup title defence last night, easing past Austria with a 2-0 win that was far more controlled than the scoreline alone suggests.
Lionel Messi inevitably grabbed the headlines, scoring both goals to become the outright leading scorer in the history of the tournament and effectively sealing top spot in Group J for Lionel Scaloni’s side.
Austria battled gamely and stayed in the game for long periods, but they were ultimately outclassed by an Argentina team that looked every inch like reigning champions.
TyC Sports gave Mac Allister a 7/10 and wrote:
“A good game, planted this time as a central midfielder, more attached to a fixed positionality than rotating between detachment and containment. Argentina needed him there today and Colo responded very well, especially in the understanding with Enzo. It must also be understood that some brilliance may go unnoticed when the functions required are not those that provide the greatest sparkles.”
The Liverpool No.10 also shared a moment with Jurgen Klopp after the game, giving him his match worn shirt and speaking to him pitch side as the German was doing his punditry duties with German broadcaster MagentaTV.
Jurgen Klopp on Instagram. 👌 pic.twitter.com/tdwsOo0K06
— DaveOCKOP (@DaveOCKOP) June 22, 2026
From a Liverpool perspective, Mac Allister is far from the only player catching the eye in North America.
Virgil van Dijk has been his usual authoritative self for the Netherlands, Florian Wirtz has already produced an assist for Germany, while Cody Gakpo has chipped in with important goals for the Netherlands against Sweden in Group F.
With several Reds performing strongly on the biggest stage, Liverpool will be hoping that the confidence and rhythm they are building at the World Cup can carry straight back into club football once the new season rolls around.