Messi Extends World Cup Scoring Record in Win Over Jordan

Lionel Messi entered the record books again, becoming the first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches. He achieved this feat as a second-half substitute in Argentina’s 3-1 victory against Jordan in the group stage finale held in Arlington, Texas.

Three days after his 39th birthday, Messi netted his 19th World Cup goal in the 80th minute. He scored on a free kick, splitting two defenders, with the ball landing in the left corner. This marked his 72nd career goal from a free kick, and his 12th for the national team. Messi’s international tally now stands at 123 goals in 202 appearances, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo’s record of 145 goals.

Messi joined elite company, standing among three others who previously scored in six consecutive World Cup games: France’s Just Fontaine and Brazil’s Jairzinho. Argentina’s coach, Lionel Scaloni, expressed admiration for Messi’s accomplishments, acknowledging how difficult it is to articulate the superlative nature of his achievements.

Impressively, Messi joins a distinctive group of players with two World Cup free-kick goals since 1966. This list includes legends such as Pelé, Rivellino, Téofilo Cubillas, Bernard Genghini, and David Beckham.

Giovani Lo Celso expressed joy in seeing Messi’s prowess, emphasizing the positive impact on teammates and the team. Lo Celso himself became the first Argentine other than Messi to score in the tournament during the 19th minute, also through a free kick.

Argentina had secured the top spot in Group J, and Jordan’s elimination rendered the match a formality. Despite this, the crowd of 70,649, gathered at the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys stadium, eagerly anticipated Messi’s appearance. They chanted his name as soon as the second half commenced.

Messi replaced Lautaro Martinez in the 60th minute. Martinez had scored earlier in the match, successfully converting a penalty kick. The roar from fans grew as Messi warmed up and entered the pitch.

Although Messi has won the Ballon d’Or eight times as the best player in Europe, the World Cup golden boot remains elusive for him. He currently leads the tournament with six goals, ahead of Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Júnior, and Erling Haaland.

Messi has been managing a minor hamstring issue from his time with Inter Miami but appeared fit to play. Argentina’s knockout round begins in South Florida, marking the start of a potentially demanding campaign in the expanded 48-team tournament.

Scaloni noted that Messi was capable of playing the full match but chose to prioritize team dynamics and preserve energy for upcoming rounds.