Lionel Messi came off the bench to score a trademark free-kick and set multiple World Cup records as Argentina wrapped up a perfect group stage with a 3-1 victory over Jordan in Dallas.
With qualification already secured and top spot in Group J confirmed, coach-rested Messi was introduced in the 60th minute to a deafening reception. The 37-year-old needed just 20 minutes to justify the anticipation, curling a low free-kick around the wall and into the bottom corner to put the result beyond doubt.
The goal was Messi’s sixth of the tournament, extending his lead at the top of the Golden Boot standings to two. It was also his 19th World Cup goal — a record he continues to stretch — and made him the first player in history to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches.
Argentina had done the early groundwork without their captain. Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring with a well-struck free-kick before Lautaro Martinez converted from the penalty spot after a VAR review confirmed Marcos Senesi had been illegally struck to the head.
Jordan gave themselves a lifeline early in the second half when Mousa Al Tamari latched onto Ehsan Haddad’s cross to pull one back and breathe life into what had been a one-sided affair. But Messi’s arrival shifted the atmosphere entirely, and his eventual free-kick silenced any remaining doubt.
Argentina, who won all three group games, will return to action in the round of 32 against Cape Verde on Friday, July 3, at 11 p.m.
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