Lionel Messi added another milestone to his remarkable World Cup career as Argentina defeated Jordan 3-1 in their final Group J match at the FIFA World Cup in Arlington.
The Argentine captain scored a stunning free-kick in the 80th minute to register his sixth World Cup goal from outside the penalty area, surpassing Brazil legend Rivelino's previous record of five.
The goal also took Messi's overall World Cup tally to 19 goals, extending his record as Argentina's leading scorer in the tournament. He has now scored six times in the ongoing World Cup.
Another historic milestone for Messi
Messi came off the bench in the 60th minute after being rested at the start of the match. 20 minutes later, he curled in a trademark free-kick to seal Argentina's victory.
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The goal made him the first men's player to score in seven successive FIFA World Cup appearances. He also became only the fourth player to score in all three group-stage matches of a single World Cup since the current format was introduced in 1998, per a report by NDTV.
Cristiano Ronaldo achieved the feat in 2018, while David Villa and Fernando Torres did so for Spain in 2010.
Argentina's Lionel Messi celebrates scoring their second goal. ANI Argentina complete perfect group campaign
The defending champions finished Group J with three wins from three matches. Argentina also registered their 50th World Cup victory, becoming only the third nation after Brazil and Germany to reach the landmark.
Head coach Lionel Scaloni made nine changes to the starting lineup after qualification had already been secured.
Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring in the 19th minute with a curling free-kick in his first World Cup appearance after missing the 2022 tournament due to injury.
Lautaro Martinez doubled Argentina's lead from the penalty spot after a VAR review awarded a spot-kick.
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Jordan's response and the road ahead
Jordan pulled one goal back through Musa Al-Tamaari in the 55th minute, briefly reducing the deficit.
However, Messi's introduction restored Argentina's control as his late free-kick secured a 3-1 victory.
Argentina will now face Cape Verde in the Round of 32 in Miami on July 4, while Jordan exit the tournament after losing all three group-stage matches.
Argentina's Lionel Messi in action with Algeria's Rayan Ait Nouri. ANI FAQs:
Which World Cup record did Lionel Messi break?
He set the record for the most goals scored from outside the box in World Cup history.
Who will Argentina face in the Round of 32?
Argentina will play Cape Verde in Miami on July 4.
