Messi scores again as Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 to complete perfect group stage

Argentina concluded their 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage campaign with a flawless record, defeating Jordan 3-1 to secure the top spot in Group J. Coach Lionel Scaloni opted for significant squad rotation, resting key players and even starting Lionel Messi on the bench for the first time since the 2006 quarterfinals.

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Argentina continued to dictate possession and doubled their advantage just after the half-hour mark.

Despite the changes, Argentina controlled the match. Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring with a free-kick in the 19th minute, and Lautaro Martinez converted a penalty before halftime to give La Albiceleste a comfortable 2-0 lead. Jordan showed some fight after the break, with Mousa Altamari pulling a goal back in the 55th minute.

Scaloni brought Messi into the game around the hour mark, and the captain made an immediate impact. In the 80th minute, Messi sealed the victory with a spectacular free-kick, his sixth goal of the tournament. This strike not only secured the 3-1 win but also extended his record as the first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches, dating back to 2022.

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Scaloni responded by introducing Messi on the hour mark, with the Argentina captain receiving a warm ovation from the crowd.

With this win, Argentina finished with a perfect nine points. They are set to face Cape Verde in the Round of 32. Jordan, meanwhile, exited the tournament without any points but managed to score in each of their group matches.

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His trademark low free-kick beat Abulaila to restore Argentina's two-goal cushion and secure a convincing 3-1 victory.