Lionel Messi made history in Argentina's World Cup match against Jordan on Saturday night, becoming the first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup games. The milestone goal came in the 80th minute via a free-kick, putting Argentina ahead 3-1.
Messi, 39, entered the match in the 60th minute after not starting the group stage finale. Argentina had already secured first place in their group. He was fouled just outside the penalty area and subsequently scored his 19th career World Cup goal. This strike separated him from previous record-holders Just Fontaine of France and Brazil's Jairzinho, who had each scored in six consecutive World Cup matches.
Messi's wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, celebrated the goal enthusiastically from the stands at AT&T Stadium. The crowd had been chanting Messi's name since the second half began, with the roar intensifying when he took the field.
Argentina's other goals in the 3-1 victory came from Giovani Lo Celso and Lautaro Martinez in the first half. Jordan had already been eliminated from knockout stage contention. Lo Celso scored from a free-kick, and Martinez converted a penalty.
Messi has been managing a minor hamstring injury with Inter Miami, which had affected his preparation for the World Cup. He currently leads the tournament with six goals, two more than Kylian Mbappé of France.
With nine changes made to the starting lineup as Argentina had already won the group, only goalkeeper Emi Martinez and forward Lautaro Martinez retained their places from the previous match. Manager Lionel Scaloni opted to rest several key players.
Argentina will proceed to the knockout rounds, facing Cape Verde in the round of 32 on Friday, July 3, in Miami. This match against Jordan was the team's final group stage fixture.