Lionel Messi came off the bench to score a record-breaking goal as Argentina defeated Jordan 3-1 to complete a perfect group-stage campaign at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Already assured of top spot in Group J, Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni rested Messi from the starting line-up before introducing the captain in the 60th minute to a standing ovation from the crowd in Dallas.
The 39-year-old marked his appearance in trademark fashion, curling a superb free-kick into the bottom corner with 10 minutes remaining to seal Argentina’s victory.
The strike was Messi’s sixth goal of the tournament, moving him two clear in the race for the Golden Boot. It also extended his World Cup tally to 19 goals and made him the first player in history to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches.
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Argentina had taken the lead in the first half through Giovani Lo Celso, who curled an excellent free-kick into the top corner.
Lautaro Martinez doubled the advantage from the penalty spot after the referee awarded a spot-kick following a video review, which showed Marcos Senesi had been kicked in the head while attempting to head the ball.
Jordan responded positively after the break and reduced the deficit through Mousa Al Tamari, who finished off a well-worked move after being picked out by Ehsan Haddad.
However, Messi’s introduction shifted the momentum back in Argentina’s favour. The Inter Miami forward immediately lifted the tempo before putting the result beyond doubt with another memorable goal.
Argentina will now face World Cup debutants Cape Verde in the Round of 32 in Miami on Friday, July 3.
