Arlington (US): Argentina captain Lionel Messi continued his record-breaking run at the FIFA World Cup 2026, becoming the first men’s player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches.

Messi also became only the fourth player to score in all three group-stage matches of a single World Cup since the format was introduced in 1998, joining Cristiano Ronaldo (2018), David Villa (2010) and Fernando Torres (2010).

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The streak began with a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina’s opening Group J match, followed by a brace against Austria. Rested at the start of the final group game against Jordan, Messi came off the bench in the 60th minute and added a trademark free-kick in the 80th minute. This extended his scoring run to seven consecutive World Cup appearances.

The goal took his World Cup tally to 19, further strengthening his position as Argentina’s all-time top scorer in the tournament.

Already assured of qualification, Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni made nine changes to the starting XI against Jordan. Despite the rotation, Argentina secured a comfortable 3–1 win to finish top of Group J with a perfect record of three victories.

Giovani Lo Celso handed Argentina the lead in the 19th minute with a curling free-kick, while Lautaro Martinez converted a penalty just before half-time.

Jordan pulled one back in the 55th minute through Musa Al-Tamaari, but Messi’s late free-kick sealed the win for Argentina in the 80th minute.

Argentina will now face the tournament debutants Cape Verde in the Round of 32 in Miami on July 4 (local time). Jordan, on the other hand, exits the tournament despite scoring in each of their group-stage matches.