Lionel Messi etched his name deeper into FIFA World Cup history after scoring as a second-half substitute to help Argentina defeat Jordan 3-1 in their final Group J match on Saturday.
The victory ensured Argentina completed the group stage with a perfect record and advanced confidently to the Round of 32.
Messi Breaks Another World Cup Record
Messi entered the match in the 60th minute and made an immediate impact.
In the 80th minute, the Argentina captain curled a stunning free kick through the Jordan defensive wall to restore his team’s two-goal advantage.
The goal made Messi the first player to score in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches.
It also extended his all-time World Cup scoring record to 19 goals, further strengthening his place among football’s greatest players.
Argentina Cruise Into Knockout Stage
Argentina finished the group stage with three wins from three matches, collecting the maximum nine points.
The defending champions also ended Group J with an impressive goal difference after scoring eight goals and conceding only once.
Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a superb free kick from the edge of the penalty area.
Lautaro Martinez doubled Argentina’s lead in the 31st minute by converting a penalty after Julian Alvarez was fouled inside the box.
Jordan reduced the deficit early in the second half when Mousa Altamari finished a cross from Ehsan Haddad in the 55th minute.
Messi’s brilliant free kick later sealed the victory.
The 39-year-old nearly scored again in stoppage time with another dangerous free kick from a tight angle.
Argentina Set for Cape Verde Challenge
Argentina will now face surprise package Cape Verde in the Round of 32 on Friday in Miami Gardens.
Cape Verde reached the knockout stage after an unbeaten group-stage campaign, making the upcoming fixture one of the tournament’s most intriguing contests.
Jordan finished bottom of Group J without a point and exited the competition after their first FIFA World Cup appearance.
Austria and Algeria Also Advance
In the other Group J match, Austria and Algeria played out a dramatic 3-3 draw that secured qualification for both teams.
Algeria appeared set for victory after Riyad Mahrez scored in stoppage time.
However, Sasa Kalajdzic equalised moments later to send Austria through and eliminate Iran from the tournament.
The thrilling result ensured both Austria and Algeria progressed to the knockout rounds.
