Lionel Messi set a new record for the group stage of the 2026 World Cup by closing out the group stage without conceding any positions along the way. Lionel Scaloni's squad, which defeated Jordan 1 to 1 for the first time in Dallas, earned nine points out of a possible nine and declared its participation in Group J's square 32.

The Brazilian manager's career had yet to end with another chapter in the night. Messi scored again in the opening match on the couch for the starting bench after only 30 minutes, which increased his World Cup history to 191. He also scored six goals throughout the event to maintain his lead in terms of goals scored.

Scaloni opted for an alternative lineup and took advantage of the context to add minutes to several players who made their debut in a World Cup. Marcos Senesi, Giuliano Simeone and Nico Paz started as starters, while Valentín Barco and José Manuel López entered the complement.

The development of the match allowed Argentina to manage energy without giving up control of the match.

Three goals from set pieces and a measured reaction

The lead began to build before the half hour mark. Giovanni Lo Celso opened the scoring with a precisely executed free kick after a foul committed on Julián Álvarez near the area. Later, an action reviewed by the VAR ended in a penalty after a blow to Marcos Senesi in the face during an Argentine offensive play.

Lautaro Martínez assumed responsibility and converted from eleven steps to widen the difference. The forward found the goal at an important moment after a long drought in official matches that went back to the qualifying match against Peru, played on November 19, 2024.

The stage seemed completely under control for the Albiceleste, although after the break a defensive lack of concentration appeared. A loss of order allowed Mousa Al-Tamari to score for Jordan in the 55th minute and end the unbeaten goal of goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, who had kept a clean sheet during the two previous games.

The answer came shortly after. Scaloni sent Messi onto the field with 30 minutes remaining and the captain took advantage of the opportunity.

With Jordan again conceding a dangerous foul near the area, the number 10 took a free kick and sealed the final 1-3 in the 80th minute. The goal extended their lead in the race for the Golden Boot and reinforced the momentum of an Argentine team that will travel to Miami to face the surprising team from Cape Verde in the round of 32.

Argentina completed the group stage with a perfect score and with a new historical figure for its highest benchmark.

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