Argentina continued its flawless run in the group stage, defeating Jordan 3-1 in a match that unfolded under the bright lights of Dallas, Texas.
A dominant performance in Dallas
The scoring opened with Giovani Lo Celso striking in the 19th minute, a precise finish that put the South Americans ahead. Shortly thereafter, Lautaro Martinez converted a penalty in the 31st minute, extending the lead to 2-0.
Messi’s record‑breaking night
Lionel Messi added his sixth goal of the tournament in the 80th minute, bringing his World Cup career total to 19 goals and establishing a new all‑time record. The strike also marked Messi’s seventh consecutive World Cup game with a goal, surpassing the previous tie held by France’s Just Fontaine and Brazil’s Jairzinho.
Jordan managed to pull one back when Mousa Altamari found the net in the 55th minute, but the effort was insufficient to alter the outcome.
What’s next for Argentina?
With the win, Argentina finished the group undefeated, marking the fifth occasion in their history to achieve a perfect three‑match record. The team will now face Cape Verde in the round of 32, a match scheduled to take place in Miami, Florida.
The contest also introduced several first‑time World Cup starters, among them Nicolás Paz and Giuliano Simeone, both sons of former Argentine internationals, adding a familial storyline to the tournament’s narrative.