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LIONEL Messi has become the first player in history to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches, surpassing records held by Just Fontaine and Jairzinho, as Argentina completed a perfect group-stage campaign with a 3-1 win over Jordan.
The victory ensured the defending champions finished top of Group J with a maximum nine points from three wins, having earlier defeated Algeria 3-0 and Austria 2-0.
Argentina now turn their attention to the round of 32, where they are set to face World Cup newcomers Cape Verde in Miami on 3 July.
AFP cited head coach Lionel Scaloni made nine changes to his starting line-up, retaining only goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez and forward Lautaro Martínez from the side that beat Austria.
Argentina opened the scoring in the 19th minute through a Giovani Lo Celso free-kick before Lautaro Martínez doubled the advantage from the penalty spot after VAR confirmed a foul on Marcos Senesi.
Jordan, already eliminated, pulled one back through Mousa Al-Tamari shortly before Messi was introduced from the bench.
The 39-year-old forward then sealed the victory with a trademark free-kick approximately 10 minutes from time, taking his tournament tally to six goals.
Argentina continues their pursuit of a second consecutive World Cup title, a feat last achieved by Brazil in 1962. - June 28, 2026
