Messi scores again as Argentina finish Group Stage perfectly ahead of World Cup knockouts

Lionel Messi continued his remarkable FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign by scoring his sixth goal of the tournament as Argentina defeated Jordan 3-1 to complete a flawless Group J campaign.

With qualification already secured, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni rotated his squad heavily, making nine changes to the starting line-up. Messi began the match on the bench but still made his mark after coming on just after the hour, curling home a late free-kick to seal another convincing victory for the defending champions.

Argentina had already taken control before Messi’s introduction. Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a superbly struck free-kick before Lautaro Martínez doubled the advantage from the penalty spot after a VAR review awarded Argentina a spot-kick.

Jordan briefly threatened a comeback when Mousa Al-Tamari finished from close range shortly after halftime, but Argentina remained comfortable throughout. Messi’s trademark free-kick with 10 minutes remaining restored the two-goal cushion and completed a perfect group-stage performance.

The victory means Argentina finish top of Group J with nine points from three matches, having also defeated Algeria 3-0 and Austria 2-0. Messi has now scored in all three group matches, including a hat-trick against Algeria and a brace versus Austria, making him the tournament’s leading scorer heading into the knockout rounds.

Argentina will now face surprise package Cape Verde in the Round of 32 on 3 July in Miami. The African debutants, ranked 67th in the world, have exceeded expectations by reaching the knockout stage but now face one of the tournament favourites.

The reigning world champions have looked increasingly dominant despite squad rotation, with Scaloni able to call on impressive depth throughout his squad. Their blend of experience and attacking quality has strengthened their bid to become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to successfully defend the FIFA World Cup title.

Backed by a passionate crowd of Argentina supporters in Texas, La Albiceleste once again showcased their quality and confidence as they head into the knockout stages carrying perfect momentum.