Here is the latest update from the ongoing FIFA World Cup as of 2026-06-28 10:29:00.
ARLINGTON, Texas — Lionel Messi made an impactful appearance off the bench in the 60th minute during Argentina’s final group stage match against Jordan, leading to a 3-1 victory for the current champions. Having already secured first place in the group, Messi’s contribution included a free kick that extended his record as the men’s all-time leading scorer in World Cup history to 19 goals.
Messi Breaks Records Again
At 39 years old, Messi achieved yet another milestone by scoring in his seventh consecutive World Cup match, surpassing legends like France’s Just Fontaine and Brazil’s Jairzinho. This goal marked Messi’s 72nd career free kick and his 12th for the Argentina national team. In total, he has netted 123 international goals, trailing only Cristiano Ronaldo, who has 145, across 202 appearances.
With Messi initially resting, his teammates Giovani Lo Celso and Lautaro Martínez secured two goals in the first half against a Jordan team that had already been eliminated from knockout contention. “I am very happy for him and for the moment he is having,” Lo Celso remarked, becoming the first Argentine player other than Messi to score in this tournament via a free kick.
Messi’s Return to the Pitch
The crowd at AT&T Stadium erupted with chants for Messi as he warmed up, and the atmosphere intensified when he entered the match. Argentina’s manager, Lionel Scaloni, had confirmed earlier that Messi would initially start on the bench. Substituting in for Martínez, Messi’s timing was strategic. “I spoke with Leo [Messi], and we both agreed that his coming on in the second half was beneficial,” Scaloni affirmed.
During the match, Messi displayed not just skill but a keen understanding of the game, having observed the first 55 minutes from the sidelines. This approach marked his sixth World Cup appearance, where he broke the 16-goal record he once shared with Germany’s Miroslav Klose. Kylian Mbappé, who tied Messi’s record with his own brace against Iraq, remains a close competitor as Argentina prepares to take on Cape Verde in the round of 32 of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
FAQs
What milestone did Lionel Messi achieve in the match against Jordan?
Messi scored a free kick that made him the all-time leading scorer in World Cup history with 19 goals.
Who did Argentina defeat in their final group stage match?
Argentina defeated Jordan 3-1 to finish first in their group.
Quick Facts
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- Source: www.espn.com – SOCCER
- Published: 2026-06-28 10:29:00
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Tags: #Lionel #Messi #scores #seal #perfect #group #stage #Argentina
Tags: #Lionel #Messi #scores #seal #perfect #group #stage #Argentina
