Argentina secured a 3-1 victory over Jordan in their final group stage match, with Lionel Messi making history by scoring in his seventh consecutive World Cup game. The match took place in Arlington, Texas, concluding the group stage for both teams.
Messi, who entered the game in the 60th minute, scored his 19th career World Cup goal from a free kick. This goal, his sixth of the 2026 World Cup, also places him two goals ahead in the Golden Boot race. The 39-year-old star’s free kick came after he was fouled just outside the penalty box in the 80th minute, splitting two Jordanian defenders to find the net.
This achievement makes Messi the first player ever to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches. He was previously one of three players to score in six consecutive World Cup games, alongside France striker Just Fontaine and Brazil great Jairzinho. The goal was also his 72nd career free-kick goal and his 12th for Argentina, bringing his international goal tally to 123 in 202 appearances.
Argentina had already secured the top spot in Group J before the match, and Jordan was already eliminated from the knockout stage. Despite this, the match saw significant moments, including a penalty kick goal from Lautaro Martinez in the first half, who was substituted by Messi.
Match Highlights and Team Performances
The game saw Argentina maintain a perfect record in the group stage with three wins from three matches. Giovani Lo Celso contributed with a free kick, and Martinez scored from a penalty, alongside Messi’s record-breaking goal. Jordan’s substitute Mousa Al-Tamari scored for his team, marking a historical moment as Jordan has now scored in all three of their World Cup matches during their debut campaign.
The match was described as a curious watch, with Argentina playing ruthlessly and slickly before halftime, but appearing flat and sloppy afterward. Jordan capitalized on this, creating moments where they genuinely sought a comeback.
Lautaro Martinez, who had not scored in the World Cup prior to this match, converted a penalty and also hit the woodwork twice. His performance indicated a striker regaining form, providing a valuable boost for Argentina ahead of the knockout stage.
Fans in Oakland gathered to watch the match, celebrating Messi’s goal and the team’s performance. The atmosphere among Argentina supporters remained vibrant throughout the game, with chants continuing from the first minute.
In other Group J developments, Algeria and Austria both advanced to the knockout round after their match ended in a 3-3 draw. Algeria will face Switzerland, while Austria will play Spain. DR Congo also finished with the best record among third-placed teams after a 3-1 win over Uzbekistan.
Looking Ahead to the Knockout Stage
Argentina will now advance to the Round of 32, where they are scheduled to play Cape Verde. This next match will take place at Miami Stadium. Messi’s performance, including his 30 minutes on the field and his goal, is seen as beneficial for his confidence and rhythm as the team prepares for the knockout stage.
The World Cup knockout stage is set to begin, with several matches scheduled. On Sunday, South Africa will play Canada. Monday’s fixtures include Brazil against Japan, Germany facing Paraguay, and the Netherlands playing Morocco. Tuesday will see Ivory Coast take on Norway, France against Sweden, and Mexico playing Ecuador.
Jordan, despite their elimination, can be proud of their World Cup debut, having scored in all three group games. The final score of the match was Jordan 1-3 Argentina.
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Source: nytimes.com
