Argentina completed a flawless FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage campaign with a 3-1 victory over Jordan in Dallas, as Lionel Messi came off the bench to make history and cap another commanding performance from the defending champions.
Already assured of top spot in Group J before kick-off, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni made nine changes to his starting line-up, resting several key players following successive victories over Algeria and Austria.
The wholesale alterations did little to disrupt the South Americans, who comfortably secured a third consecutive win to finish the group stage with a maximum nine points.
Argentina controlled possession from the outset and deservedly took the lead in the 19th minute when Giovani Lo Celso finished off a flowing move to reward their early dominance.
Jordan, already eliminated after defeats to Austria and Algeria, struggled to contain Argentina’s movement and found themselves two goals behind before the half-hour mark.
Lautaro Martínez doubled the advantage with a composed finish after being played through on goal, leaving the Asian side with a mountain to climb.
The underdogs emerged with renewed purpose after the interval and pulled one back in the 55th minute. Substitute Mousa Al-Taamari, introduced at half-time, produced a clinical finish to briefly raise Jordanian hopes and energise their supporters.
Scaloni responded by introducing Messi from the bench, and the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner once again made an immediate impact.
In the 80th minute, the Argentina captain put the result beyond doubt with a trademark finish, extending his remarkable scoring streak and adding another chapter to his illustrious World Cup career.
The goal saw Messi become the first men’s player to score in seven consecutive FIFA World Cup matches, further cementing his place in tournament history while moving to six goals in the race for the Golden Boot.
Argentina’s victory ensured they completed the group phase with three wins from three, scoring eight goals and conceding just once.
They will now face Cabo Verde in the Round of 32 after the African nation secured a historic place in the knockout stages.
For Jordan, the defeat brought an end to a spirited first World Cup campaign. Although they leave the tournament without a point, they earned admiration for their determination and managed to score against one of the competition’s pre-tournament favourites in their final outing.
With momentum building and squad depth on full display, Argentina head into the knockout rounds looking every bit like genuine contenders to defend the title they won four years ago.
