Lionel Messi scores free kick to break another World Cup record as Argentina beat Jordan
Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 in FIFA World Cup 2026 as Lionel Messi once again delivered a historic performance, scoring a stunning free kick to extend his record-breaking run in World Cup football and secure Argentina’s perfect Group J campaign in Dallas.
The victory ensured Argentina finished top of their group with three wins from three, while Jordan were left reflecting on a brave but ultimately outclassed performance against one of the tournament favourites.
Lionel Messi leads Argentina vs Jordan in World Cup 2026 clash
Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 in FIFA World Cup 2026 with Lionel Messi once again at the centre of global football attention. The 39-year-old forward came off the bench but still managed to shape the outcome of the match with his trademark brilliance.
Before Messi’s late heroics, Argentina had already established control of the Argentina vs Jordan encounter through strong team play and early attacking pressure. Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a superb free kick, before Lautaro Martínez added a second from the penalty spot.
Jordan responded through Mousa Al Tamari, briefly raising hopes of a comeback, but Argentina’s quality ultimately proved decisive in the World Cup 2026 Group J fixture.
World Cup 2026 Group J match delivers Messi free kick magic
The highlight of the World Cup 2026 Group J match came late in the second half when Messi stepped onto the pitch and immediately changed the rhythm of the game.
After winning a dangerous free kick just outside the penalty area, Messi curled a perfect strike over the Jordan wall and into the top corner. The goal marked his sixth of the tournament and extended his astonishing record of scoring in seven consecutive World Cup matches.
This free kick goal record further cemented Messi’s legacy as one of football’s greatest-ever players, as he continues to rewrite history at international level.
Argentina’s third goal sealed the 3-1 result and ensured they maintained momentum heading into the knockout stages.
Free kick goal record defines Argentina’s attacking dominance
The free kick goal record achieved during this match highlighted Argentina’s technical superiority throughout the tournament.
Not only did Messi score from a set piece, but Giovani Lo Celso also found the net directly from a free kick earlier in the match. This made Argentina one of the few teams in modern World Cup history to score multiple direct free kicks in a single game.
Their ability to convert dead-ball situations has become a major tactical advantage for Lionel Scaloni’s side, especially in tightly contested knockout scenarios.
Argentina vs Jordan World Cup 2026 tactical breakdown
The Argentina vs Jordan match showcased a clear contrast in squad depth and experience.
Argentina controlled possession from the opening whistle, using quick passing combinations and wide attacking movement to stretch Jordan’s defensive lines. Nicolás Otamendi, captaining the side in Messi’s absence, played a key role in maintaining defensive structure while pushing the team forward during set pieces.
Jordan, meanwhile, relied on counter-attacks and physical intensity, which briefly paid off when they scored to make it 2-1. However, their defensive lapses against Argentina’s midfield creativity ultimately proved costly.
Lionel Messi World Cup impact continues at 39
Despite his age, Lionel Messi continues to dominate headlines at the World Cup 2026. His introduction in the second half was the turning point of the match.
Messi’s ability to influence games off the bench, combined with his record-breaking scoring streak, shows why he remains central to Argentina’s ambitions. His leadership and technical brilliance continue to set him apart on the global stage.
This latest goal also adds to his growing tally in what may be his final World Cup appearance, further enhancing his legacy.
World Cup 2026 Group J match stats and Argentina performance
The World Cup 2026 Group J match ended with Argentina firmly on top of their group standings. They recorded three wins from three matches, scoring consistently and demonstrating defensive stability.
Key match statistics included:
- Argentina possession dominance
- Multiple shots on target from Martínez and Lo Celso
- One penalty goal and one free kick goal
- Messi’s 80th-minute match-winning strike
Jordan showed resilience but struggled to maintain defensive discipline against Argentina’s attacking depth.
Argentina prepare for knockout stage after Jordan win
Following the 3-1 victory, Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 in FIFA World Cup 2026 and now turn their attention to the knockout rounds.
With momentum, confidence, and form on their side, Argentina remain one of the favourites for the tournament. Messi’s form, combined with contributions from Lo Celso and Martínez, gives the squad multiple attacking threats.
Their next challenge will be even tougher, but this performance reinforces their status as serious title contenders.
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Qualified teams for the World Cup 2026 knockouts, round of 32
Conclusion
Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 in FIFA World Cup 2026 in a match defined by Lionel Messi’s brilliance, tactical control, and set-piece mastery. With a perfect group stage campaign completed, Argentina now move into the knockout phase as one of the strongest teams in the tournament.
References
- Reuters – Messi becomes first player to score in 7 consecutive World Cup matches
https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/messi-becomes-first-player-score-seven-consecutive-world-cup-matches-2026-06-28/
- Reuters – Argentina beat Jordan 3-1 as Messi scores free kick
https://www.reuters.com/sports/soccer/seventh-heaven-messi-argentina-beat-jordan-3-1-2026-06-28/
- The Guardian – Jordan 1-3 Argentina live match report
https://www.theguardian.com/football/live/2026/jun/28/fifa-world-cup-2026-live-jordan-v-argentina-updates-jor-vs-arg-group-j-match-score-latest
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