Argentina closed their World Cup Group J campaign with a 3-1 win over Jordan, confirming first place with a perfect record of three victories and nine points. The match combined decisive group-stage stakes with a major personal milestone for Messi, whose late appearance from the bench reshaped the narrative of the night.
Argentina built control on the scoreboard through set pieces. Lo Celso broke the deadlock with a goal from a free kick, giving his team an early advantage. Lautaro added a second from the penalty spot, reinforcing Argentina's grip on the game before Jordan reduced the deficit late in the second half, keeping a measure of suspense in the contest.
Messi entered from the bench and delivered the key highlight, scoring a stunning free kick that lifted his World Cup career tally to 19 goals, establishing a new all-time scoring record in the tournament. With this result, Argentina secured top spot in Group J with three wins from three, Jordan finished fourth and exited the competition, while Austria and Algeria took second and third and advanced to the knockout stage alongside the group leaders.